I began painting and drawing when I was very young. It was relaxing for me. Painting took me to a place in my mind that was calm. I would often get bored in school and doodle on the pages of my notebook. I remember in 6th grade I used to share my set of scented markers with a friend. We got in trouble for drawing pictures and giggling while we passed them back and forth to one another. That didn't change when I went to college, which is what drove me to eventually get my degree in Art Studio.
I initially wanted to be an Art Teacher. Once I realized I had to pay the bills to survive, and I was unable to find a job in the art world, I returned to school to get my masters degree in Communication Studies (unclear at the time if I wanted to become a news reporter or visual communications/marketing expert). I finished my coursework, met my husband and jetted down to sunny Southern California with him, at which time I worked at Walt Disney Feature Animation.
We soon moved back to Northern California where we were married and had kids. Somewhere in those years I put away my paints and put down my brushes. I wish I didn't, since painting for me is so therapeutic and relaxing. I began practicing real estate, and after attending monthly art walks and art shows, I soon realized how desperately I wanted back into the arts. Our family relocated to Orange County in 2006, and gradually, I began painting again. In 2008 when both kids were in school full time, I pulled away from real estate, had our tandem garage converted into a studio and REALLY committed my career to painting.
Your work is extremely colourful. Could you tell me about some of it?
Creating and painting is really an obsession. Like any great athlete is consumed with thoughts of running their next race, I too become obsessed with creating my next piece. And once I start, it becomes all about expressing myself. Often the brush and paints take over and I'm just their apprentice.
I believe all my works are colorful, and all utilize some form of light and shadow contrasts. My portrait works (for example, the pet portrait series) are vibrant and full of character. My landscape and scenes (for example, the bridge series) have a vibrant cartoon quality, yet retain a touch or realistic qualities... just enough to make the viewer prefer the painted image over the real world scene. I have made plenty of horrid errors over the years, and I like to learn from them then put them out of sight.
I keep copies of my successful paintings displayed in my studio (as well as paintings I admire from other artists), sort of like a encouraging reminder to "paint this way!"
Creating and painting is really an obsession. Like any great athlete is consumed with thoughts of running their next race, I too become obsessed with creating my next piece. And once I start, it becomes all about expressing myself. Often the brush and paints take over and I'm just their apprentice.
I believe all my works are colorful, and all utilize some form of light and shadow contrasts. My portrait works (for example, the pet portrait series) are vibrant and full of character. My landscape and scenes (for example, the bridge series) have a vibrant cartoon quality, yet retain a touch or realistic qualities... just enough to make the viewer prefer the painted image over the real world scene. I have made plenty of horrid errors over the years, and I like to learn from them then put them out of sight.
I keep copies of my successful paintings displayed in my studio (as well as paintings I admire from other artists), sort of like a encouraging reminder to "paint this way!"
What type of art do you most identify with?
I identify mostly with contemporary or modern art. Art that tells the story of today, and art that speaks about the world around us. I identify with many modern artists who are involved in a dialogue that forces us to look at ourselves and the society in which we live.
I identify with art that deals with our everyday lives, everyday world. Art that is a visual diary. Art that tells a story, asks questions and moves, touches and inspires the viewer without directly giving away the ending.
Your style is very unique. Did you learn this or did it develop over time?
I studied under a number of great artists, including my Painting instructor, Wayne Thiebaud. I took every word out of his mouth like gold, and if you are ever lucky enough to be in his presence during an interview or lecture, you will know what I mean. He's an amazing soul, and has such incredible artistic insight and talent. And he's the most down-to-earth famous artist in existence. I loved his work before he was my professor. Probably because my mom also had him as a professor in the 1960s when she went to the same college. His style of painting, thick brush strokes of oil paints, colorful combinations, whimsical landscapes, and delicious still lifes all resonated with me.
I tried painting and drawing with precision and accuracy and it bored me. I did it to learn the techniques, and I could still draw and paint a landscape or person to make it look like a photograph, but it doesn't reflect my story and interpretation of the world. I can do it, but don't see the purpose. So my style evolved out of process of elimination combined with stolen... I mean the learned... Style of my idol. When you're duplicating an image, where's the fun? Where's the emotion and self expression? Being "real" is all about listening to your emotions and turning off your brain, and I believe my painting style reflects these priorities.
I know you're a busy mother also, how often do you get to work each day/week?
Number one rule: flexibility. I make it a goal to work in my studio at least 10 hours on my busiest of weeks. I need at least an hour and a half to begin a painting. If I don't have that much time before having to pick up the kids from school, I work on unfinished paintings.
I also try and do some administrative or organizing work in the studio. I am constantly interrupted, so creating at least 3 mornings each week (turn off my phone, Facebook, etc.) is crucial. And sometimes that doesn't happen, but I don't get discouraged by time constraints and the challenges of having so many responsibilities. I remind myself that I am my own superhero, and even a few minutes in the studio each week is better than zero.
What is the art community like in California?
California is filled with successful artists, world renowned museums and galleries. I think because of the number of colleges, universities and art schools, California tends to breed progressive and creative thought and innovation, whether it be in the arts, science, medicine, agriculture or liberal studies.
The residential suburbia town where I currently live does not have a strong art community. However, Laguna Beach is just a 15 minute drive from my house and studio, and it has a,bustling art community, rich with artist history and culture. It's the home to many galleries and individual artist studios and co-ops. It is also home to an annual summertime art festival and Pageant of the Masters.
Is there much of a market for art in your area?
That's a great question. I have been on many tours of Laguna Beach's monthly art shows, and most galleries are representing realist, and plein aire artists. A few galleries are selling abstracts and more contemporary works, but I have yet to find a gallery or space that carries my style.
Yet I still have plenty of commission requests and buyers for my works. So to answer your initial question, no, there doesn't seem to be a market for my style of work in my area, at least not in the galleries I have seen.
That's a great question. I have been on many tours of Laguna Beach's monthly art shows, and most galleries are representing realist, and plein aire artists. A few galleries are selling abstracts and more contemporary works, but I have yet to find a gallery or space that carries my style.
Yet I still have plenty of commission requests and buyers for my works. So to answer your initial question, no, there doesn't seem to be a market for my style of work in my area, at least not in the galleries I have seen.
How do you use facebook, twitter and youtube to promote your art?
I try to limit my posts, but I usually still go overboard on the amount I post. I just get excited, and my "fans" and followers like to see works go from start to finish. Which was another reason for starting my YouTube channel. I got so many wonderful responses on the photos I took of the painting process that I finally said "why not make a time lapsed video?" Its not just the followers who I love interacting with. Its also the many fun and vivacious people and artists on social media.
I "met" you, Heidi Keyes, Danielle Davis, Lori McNee (Fine Art Tips), Drew (SkinnyArtist), Cliff Wassmann, and many other amazing and talented artists on Facebook and Twitter. I think promoting my artwork is a byproduct to promoting myself, the artist. I try and share things about myself (my struggles, thoughts, successes, etc.) on these pages, and post photos of my art as the "result" of who I am as a person.
In doing so, I have discovered a large community of similar people promoting themselves as artists as well. And when artists can share their hurdles and triumphs with one another, it becomes a virtual, interactive support group. And in the end, because of the social momentum and public interactions, the art gets promoted.
How do you promote your work offline?
I get involved in as many charity events and silent auctions, shows and exhibits as I can. I display my art in offices or retail spaces during monthly art-walks. I have shirts printed with my art, which has led to a client buying a painting. Many of my pieces are hung on my walls at home which has also led to friends (who were over for dinner) buying a piece. Word of mouth is also a powerful promoter. I think my biggest source of promotion for my work has been the internet and social media.
I try to limit my posts, but I usually still go overboard on the amount I post. I just get excited, and my "fans" and followers like to see works go from start to finish. Which was another reason for starting my YouTube channel. I got so many wonderful responses on the photos I took of the painting process that I finally said "why not make a time lapsed video?" Its not just the followers who I love interacting with. Its also the many fun and vivacious people and artists on social media.
I "met" you, Heidi Keyes, Danielle Davis, Lori McNee (Fine Art Tips), Drew (SkinnyArtist), Cliff Wassmann, and many other amazing and talented artists on Facebook and Twitter. I think promoting my artwork is a byproduct to promoting myself, the artist. I try and share things about myself (my struggles, thoughts, successes, etc.) on these pages, and post photos of my art as the "result" of who I am as a person.
In doing so, I have discovered a large community of similar people promoting themselves as artists as well. And when artists can share their hurdles and triumphs with one another, it becomes a virtual, interactive support group. And in the end, because of the social momentum and public interactions, the art gets promoted.
How do you promote your work offline?
I get involved in as many charity events and silent auctions, shows and exhibits as I can. I display my art in offices or retail spaces during monthly art-walks. I have shirts printed with my art, which has led to a client buying a painting. Many of my pieces are hung on my walls at home which has also led to friends (who were over for dinner) buying a piece. Word of mouth is also a powerful promoter. I think my biggest source of promotion for my work has been the internet and social media.
What motivates you?
Perfection used to be my motivator. I would never have admitted it, but now that I have transformed my ways, I can definitely see in retrospect how debilitating that motivator was. Generally speaking, I'm motivated now by living a balanced and well-rounded life. I am not competitive, and I strive to reach my goals and aspirations I set for myself without fear of looking bad or fitting into societal norms and expectations.
I used to be really hard on myself and wouldn't be pleased if things didn't turn out exactly how I wanted them to. I have transformed my way of being over the last couple years and have learned to lighten up. Fulfillment is my motivator.
What’s your favourite art work?
My favorite works include the paintings of Thiebaud, Rothko, Van Gogh, Picasso and Monet... mostly painters who use a broad range of bright colors and loose brush strokes. While I admire classic and realist artists for their talent in accurately reproducing images with skill and precision, these works don't conjure up emotions for me. My favorite works of art are ones I can identify with, ones that pull me in with a touch of mystery and intrigue, yet still capture and hold my attention with beautiful content.
Can you tell me the best piece of advice you’ve been given?
I have heard a lot of wonderful advice in my life. And some, not so great. I don't have a "best piece" but here are my top favorites: Dreams don't come true by talking about them, dreams come true where action is found. Don't let failures from the past keep you from living your life today.
Language is powerful, including the self sabotaging voice in your head... Learn how to shut it up. Trust your instincts. Keep a sense of humor, or you will lose perspective. Make a conscience effort to act outside your comfort zone. Don't let mistakes keep you from going forward. Be true to your authentic self. Be your own inspiration.
Make a habit of connecting with others to keep yourself from getting wrapped up in yourself. Stay positive and grateful. Love and love some more. Love freely. Accept both success and defeat gracefully. Be humble yet confident, and don't brag. Be and stay present to what you truly love. Do or do not, there is no try.
Language is powerful, including the self sabotaging voice in your head... Learn how to shut it up. Trust your instincts. Keep a sense of humor, or you will lose perspective. Make a conscience effort to act outside your comfort zone. Don't let mistakes keep you from going forward. Be true to your authentic self. Be your own inspiration.
Make a habit of connecting with others to keep yourself from getting wrapped up in yourself. Stay positive and grateful. Love and love some more. Love freely. Accept both success and defeat gracefully. Be humble yet confident, and don't brag. Be and stay present to what you truly love. Do or do not, there is no try.
And lastly, what are your goals as an artist?
My goal is to have a solo art exhibit in the gallery of my choice. The challenge is finding a gallery that fits my style, and one that I like. I want to create or donate monthly charitable works. I want to spend more volunteer time teaching art in the classrooms of my kids.
My other goal is to continue creating videos for YouTube and make my painting (both instruction and entertainment) mainstream. Not necessarily to sell my works, but to share the process with others.
Thanks a lot Lani! To see more of Lani's work be sure to "like" her facebook page here at Lani Woods Artist
and check out her youtube channel ArtistLani .
Don't forget to leave a comment below.
My goal is to have a solo art exhibit in the gallery of my choice. The challenge is finding a gallery that fits my style, and one that I like. I want to create or donate monthly charitable works. I want to spend more volunteer time teaching art in the classrooms of my kids.
My other goal is to continue creating videos for YouTube and make my painting (both instruction and entertainment) mainstream. Not necessarily to sell my works, but to share the process with others.
and check out her youtube channel ArtistLani .
Don't forget to leave a comment below.
+-+Copy.JPG)
Posts
