Interview

Apr 20

Billy Lake

Billy Lake is a Sydney-based artist, born and raised in the small town of Lennox Head. She believes her free spirited, somewhat hippy up bringing is what inspired her interest in portraying self-love and acceptance of the female form for all that it is. This is evident throughout her work.

Billy completed her Bachelor of fine arts degree at the National Art School, Sydney, where she majored in painting.

Whilst Billy spends most of her time painting at her Milsons Point studio, she enjoys spending her off days working for the local council providing murals and street art restoration.

What is your background and how did you start your journey in the art world?

“I was raised in a relatively creative home, with both my parents dappling in the arts and working as leather smiths. Growing up, we travelled around the countryside a lot as my parents sold their work at community markets. This gave me insight into crafts, cultures and a sense of belonging.”

What does your work aim to say? Does it comment on any current social or political issues?

“My work aims to say, ‘This is me and here I am, unapologetically.’ I felt very beaten down by society for many years for just trying to be who I am, forever told to tone it down and step back.”

Which current art world trends are you following?

"I aim to bring out the cheeky side in us all, for us to let ourselves shine without fear of judgment. I want us all to celebrate our she-devil, instead of punishing her. Let’s normalize loving ourselves, and everyone else, for that matter.”

Do you plan your work in advance, or is it improvisation?

“I briefly plan my work with a little sketch before, usually just to check to space available. A lot of my work is made up on the spot, I’m forever trying new tactics and adjusting my method. Exploration is where the diamonds come from.
Most of my own favorite pieces just happen.”

What process, materials, techniques, etc., do you use to create your artwork?

“I generally use a range of mediums in each work, almost always including oil sticks and spray paint—my favorite!”

What does your art mean to you?

“My art is my way of placing myself in this world, my protest to ‘the man’ and what he deems appropriate. And I creating something beautiful in the process.”

What’s your favourite artwork and why?

“My favorite work would be Giddy Up, shown above. It’s one of the first pieces I did when I returned to painting after many years off. I enjoy how free and loose the piece is. I usually struggle with letting go of control when painting.”

Have you had any noteworthy exhibitions you'd like to share?

“I had my first solo show last August. I work doing murals and street art restoration for the local council, and I’ll soon be appearing in a group art show.
I’m currently working on my next solo art show.”