Lola ‘Ipsum Factum’ Exclusive Interview

LA based artist Lola is opening her new solo show at Corey Helford Gallery this Saturday 27th March 2010. Entitled ‘Ipsum Factum’, the show encompasses Lola’s unique process for visual storytelling, illustrating a harmony between creatures and human figures in mythical worlds of her imagination.

I had the pleasure of interviewing miss Lola a week before she gets to share her highly anticipated new solo show at Corey Helford Gallery in California which runs through to 14th April 2010. Make sure, if your in LA to go and check out Lola’s new show!

This being your second solo art show at Corey Helford Gallery, what was it that brought you back?

Firstly, the kindheartedness of the owners, Jan and Bruce. They’re extremely passionate about art, and have a genuine connection with the artists they work with. And because of that, I have the most productive and honest experience while painting for their shows.

Tell us about your new solo show entitled ‘ Ipsum Factum’. What is the story behind these works.

“Ipsum Factum” is Latin for achieving one’s own truth. It derives from my observations through the relationships we share with one another. It also acknowledges that we are very different and unique and have a lot to share. Through truth, our eyes are opened to our hearts, which brings in all the other elements of the show: The gift of music, knowledge is power, protecting mother earth, nurturing a balanced heart. I also have a strong message to the viewer that it starts within them. The only way to move forward in anything in life is to have a really good sense of who you are, and rock that loud! Peace of mind is something you have to work for, on a daily basis.

Where does the inspiration for the creatures and people in your works come from?

They are simply the emotions behind the idea, their job is to convey the feelings for the work.

Working up to the show what sort of daily practices do you endure?

I have a hard time working first thing in the morning. So I like to go to yoga, or hike up on the hill by my house. Then I get the sensation that I have separated myself from home/studio for a bit and can ease into working a little better. My typical day is spent painting from morning to night, with breaks in between. I have a strange routine in which i will start by listening to kcrw or npr, then music for the better part of the day, and on to listening to documentaries or movies at night. Most of the movies I’ve
seen lately, I havent actually seen. But my ears enjoy! This makes time for actual sleeping blissful.

I love the way you hand pick your own antique frames, I feel like it finishes off the work with a personal and deliberate selection. Why did you choose to do this?

I just love the craftmanship that goes into antiques. They are their own works of art, detailed and loved. I love the hunt, and find, and they somehow on their own became the groundworks for what I would create.

Tell us about your father’s role in your artistic expression as a child.

My dad is rad! RAD! He’s a cartoonist, and was always letting us paint and draw. He let my brother and I paint with him on store front windows when we were little. He taught me how to silk screen when I was 12. And he had this wonderful old projector in the garage, and we would make huge banners for school, and soccer games. It was his encouragement and participation that really nurtured my early art addiction.

What are three things you like to surround yourself with?

The people I love, anything inspiring for my work, and cupcakes.

What is coming up for you in 2010? I hope you are showing in New York!?

Haha! well, my next exhibit will be in Canada at the Y’ves LaRoche Gallery where I’ll be presenting new works along side my friend Greg Simkins. It’s going to be insane!