Interview
Lesa Shaw
“My body of work is aimed at evoking a sense of wonder, contemplation and connection.” - Lesa Shaw.
Lesa is an artist and high school art teacher with a passion for painting. She has been honing her skills for many years and had the opportunity to showcase her work locally and jurored internationally. Currently, Lesa lives and works in the state of Texas. She draws from the awe-inspiring beauty of nature and its endless variety.
The colors, textures and patterns found in flora, fauna, and natural landscapes often find their way into her artwork. Her artwork is characterized by vibrant and visually captivating compositions that have an intricate interaction of colors, organic forms and shapes as well as an abundance of color. Lesa strives to evoke emotions and provoke thought through her abstract compositions with elements of surrealism. Each piece tells a story and invites the viewer to interpret it in their own way.
What is your background and how did you start your journey in the art world?
“My background as an artist spans over 25 years, during which I have been self-taught and continuously honing my skills as a painter. I initially started my journey by exploring abstract shapes and focusing on techniques such as color theory, blending, and experimentation. This allowed me to develop my unique style and express my creativity through my artwork. Over the years, I have continued to evolve as an artist, drawing inspiration from various sources and pushing the boundaries of my artistic abilities.”
What inspires you?
“As an artist, I find inspiration in the vibrant world of color and the creation of intricate details in my work. Nature, people, and various ideas serve as my primary sources of inspiration. I draw from the beauty of nature's landscapes, the diverse personalities of people I encounter, and the endless flow of creative ideas that spark my imagination. These inspirations fuel my passion for art and drive me to create pieces that reflect the depth and richness of the world around me.”
What themes do you pursue? Is there an underlying message in your work?
“In my current work, I seek to explore the complexities of women through the beauty of diversity, and power of self-expression. I am always open to new inspirations and ideas and I embrace the possibility of exploring a diverse range of subjects and concepts in my art. This evolution allows me to grow as an artist, continually challenging myself to push boundaries and experiment with different themes that resonate with me personally and creatively.”
How would you describe your work?
“I’d like for people to interact with what they first feel about the color. I strive to create a sense of calm. The subjects I use, I strive for contemplation and intrigue. Each artwork narrates a unique tale and viewers can connect and interpret it through their own lens.”
Which artists influence you most?
“As an artist, I draw inspiration from a diverse range of artists across different eras and styles. Georgia O'Keeffe's style of florals, with its organic shapes and emphasis on blending colors, resonates with me and influences my approach to capturing the beauty of nature. Similarly, Kandinsky's use of colors and rhythmic style that inspire me to explore the emotional depth of colors in my own work. I also find inspiration in female artists such as Deborah Roberts, Eileen Agar, and Genevieve Figgis. Their unique and bold approach to figurative art challenges me to push boundaries and express myself in my own figurative works. I find inspiration in their courage and creativity, and strive to infuse my art with the same level of uniqueness and individuality.”
“My current work revolves around the portrayal of human emotions and experiences through vibrant and colorful depictions of women figures.”
What is your creative process like?
“My artistic approach is characterized by my unique use of color. When I work on a series, I typically use a specific group of colors that are interconnected and sometimes repeated. I incorporate color theory into my work to ensure that my compositions have a harmonious feel. I prefer working with form, especially figurative form and semi-abstract. I sketch my ideas directly onto the canvas and then paint, treating it like a puzzle where each area of color influences the next. This methodical process reflects my creative mindset and commitment to developing a unique visual language that embodies my artistic identity and vision.”
What is an artist’s role in society and how do you see that evolving?
“The role of an artist in society is multifaceted and essential in shaping cultural narratives and fostering connections among individuals. The purpose of art is to evolve and share narratives that resonate with viewers on a personal level. Artists can bring a unique perspective to their work that allows viewers to interpret and connect with the art in a way that is meaningful to them.”
Have you had any noteworthy exhibitions you'd like to share?
“Throughout my artistic career, I have had the opportunity to exhibit my artwork in various exhibitions. Two significant exhibitions for me were my first solo show in 2005 at the Winery in Grand Prairie and group show in 2005 at the Art Bar and Gallery in Deep Ellum, Dallas, called "Plural Harmony." These experiences took courage and were validating, especially since much of my work had previously been private.
In more recent shows, I have exhibited my artwork at Arts Fort Worth 2024 in "Together We Make Art Happen," the Grand Prairie Arts Council in "Dolly in Living Color 2024," and “Women in Art” 2024 exhibition at the Las Laguna Art Gallery.
Additionally, I have been honored with prize awards in the Camelback Art Gallery international juried competition, "Faces 2023," Artist Invitational VI, and "Color Impact 2023." These exhibitions have served as platforms for me to showcase my artistic vision, engage with a broader audience, and receive valuable feedback on my work. I am truly grateful for the opportunities to exhibit my work, as each experience reignites my passion for creating art and sharing it with others.”
