NEWCASTLE HERALD: LARA SCOLARI TO FEATURE AT MAITLAND REGIONAL ART GAL

What do you think draws people to abstract expressionism?

Abstract expressionism gives the viewer the opportunity to bring their own personal perspective to the art. Everyone will experience the artwork individually and differently. Some people need to search for meaning or imagery that reflects something within the work (this comes from deep within our brain and is part of our survival skills) where others can just let go and enjoy the art work for the emotion and interest it brings.

Do you think this art comes from the unconscious mind? If so, how?

For me definitely – as I am an action/gestural painter.

I am interested in how energy informs the painting and viewing process. When creating my work, I develop a loose composition Marquette? but then when this is realised on the large scale canvas I no real plan and never know how they will turn out. Basically one process informs the next, becoming like a visual dialogue between the artwork and myself.

My paintings provide a space for you the viewer to engage with this spectrum of energy that then provokes conversation and thought. I hope that when viewing these works of energy, you are free to be transported to another state of mind.

What is painting to you?

When I am in the studio painting – I go into a meditative, relaxed state - and while I am preparing, thinking and physically laying on the colour and mediums – I am really just playing and having fun.

I have learnt not to get caught up on the outcomes but to just let the process happen and the magic will come.

Pollock painted to jazz. What music do you paint to?

I AWAYS paint to music – actually I have music playing continually in my home. The playlists do vary but I am very much an album listener and like to hear the complete series of songs through – so yes, I never shuffle! Some of my Faves are Powderfinger, Moby, Jack White, Jet, Sarah Blasko, Bernard Fanning, Angus & Julia Stone, Paul Simon and many other Ballady Rock type music.

Is music part of your inspiration? If not, what is?

Not really my inspiration but it definitely informs my movement and action when in the actual process of painting - I do dance along!

This story is to preview an art sale. So tell me, what are your thoughts on how artists can make a buck in this day and age?

Basically I think you need to be true to yourself and your practice and be prolific.

I paint 7 days a week up to 3 times a day this is a morning, afternoon and evening shift – sometimes I also do a middle of the night – but of course I do not mind as I love any opportunity to play in the studio.

Use social media to your advantage especially Instagram which is the visual social.

Work to deadlines – book in your exhibition’s – work out your theme’s/concepts/sizes - and give yourself a quota like say I am going to create 20 new works in the next year ready for my exhibition – then make sure you make them happen – you always surprise yourself.

https://www.newcastleherald.com.au/story/5707500/painting-to-moby-and-powderfinger/