Another segment from my interview series.
This one is about an artist named Lalieta Persaud.
What got you interested in the art industry?
My mother played a key role in my love for art. She would encourage me when I was little to keep drawing and creating, buying me every type of art supply to do so. When family would say "you should be interested in computers!" She would tell me "never stop drawing because it makes you happy!" She was right!
What type of work do you do?
I'm an abstract artist who paints in an acrylic medium. I can also paint in every medium from oils to water color but acrylic is my favourite. I love the texture, intensity and drying time.
Tell me a little bit about your artistic style.
My artistic style deals with a lot of movement. I'm always trying to draw the eyes all over my canvas while evoking emotions within the viewer.
How often do you work jobs?
I spend no more than 2hours per painting from start to finish. I'm able to speed paint and that helps with keeping up the momentum of my creativity from start to finish without loosing my flow.
What is involved with your job?
Abstract portraits/freestyle & tattoo drawings
What motivates/inspires you?
As conceited as it sounds when it comes to art, I motivate me. The genuine pure joy I experience while painting is enough for me to become addicted. To be able to stand back and still say "wow! I did that!" Still gives me chills. Every time I create I'm stoked to push the envelope right off the table!
What is your favourite medium?
Acrylic, sharpies & pencil
What are the challenges and struggles that you face with your chosen career?
I've always kept art as my hobbie even though I have made money from my pieces. I never wanted art to turn into work for me. I feared I would no longer enjoy it as much. Art is my outlet on my bad days & my joy on my good days.
Why do you do what you do?
I want to keep creating because it helps my soul grow while relieving stress.
Which prominent figure in your field do you admire most?
I admire Pablo Picasso, his techniques in his paintings I could stare at for hours. Being young and hearing one of his quotes has always stuck with me through life.
"All children are artists. The problem is how to remain an artist once he grows up."-Pablo Picasso
I believe this is true and I consciously make an effort to stay organic in thought and expression.
Tell me about something that you are proud to have accomplished.
I am highly proud to have received the art award in every school I attended from elementary to high school. In college I became a Certified Esthetician and I won the manicure award, I can give credit to my nail polish painting skills to art! :)
Tell me about a specific piece that you have done.I'm currently working on a few pieces of my friend Megan, painted in many styles from abstract to comic to animation. I'm not sure which form she'll take next but I can't wait to see.
