Where do you live? 

I grew up in Providence and live in Narragansett, RI.

How long have you been a member? 

I’ve been a member at Wickford Art Association for over 25 years.

Do you currently volunteer?

I volunteer at the Wickford Art Festival.

How long have you been a JAM?

I’ve been a JAM for over 20 years for pastel & watercolor.

How would you describe your artwork?

My artwork is mostly realistic, sometimes impressionistic. I experiment with abstract.  Pastel is my primary medium and watercolor is my second.  I enjoy doing mixed media including collages.

From where do you find your inspiration?

Most of my inspiration I find in nature.  I love the ocean and the constant change & challenges of painting seascapes. I also enjoy portraiture.  It’s difficult and so rewarding to capture personality as well as a likeness.

What is the most important thing that you want viewers to take away from your artwork?

A feeling of peacefulness, even if it’s in a seascape with waves, there is a sense of calm.  I also like to s how the beauty of the world around them.  This includes people, colors and texture of the environment.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

Don’t be afraid to experiment and make lots of mistakes.  It’s the only way to learn new skills and create something new and exciting. Keep learning!

What is the most important skill you should have as an artist?

Drawing.  Learn to draw well.  Everything else will fall into place after that.

What is your favorite thing about the Wickford Art Association?

The people!! The friendships made throughout the years.  Artists support each other, everyone has a signature style and there isn’t competition.

My favorite place is Black Point.

Favorite food – pasta and potato chips (not together!)

What do you enjoy most about your artistry/being an artist?

Being able to create something that others can enjoy.  I feel that art should be affordable.  On a personal level; art is a big part of who I am.  There’s always something new to learn, it’s relaxing, fun and it can be very therapeutic.

Do you have any upcoming shows?

I have artwork in the current Wickford Art Exhibit – Real or Imagined.  I also donated a piece to the South County Art Association’s Art Heist. Bartone’s Jewelry on Main Street in Wakefield is exhibiting 20 pieces; including seascapes, landscapes and salt marshes.  I also have 3 seasonal pieces at the Wickford Art Gallery as part of the “That’s Our JAM” program.

 

Please click here for more of our interview with Lori!