Tag: art

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“Everything You Need to Know About Headshot Photography”

With celebrity photographer Annemarie Bickerton by Steven Smith

https://www.annemariebickerton.co.uk

https://www.annemariebickerton.co.uk

A great headshot can open doors — whether you’re an actor, a creative, or a professional. Choosing the right photographer, preparing properly, and understanding the process can make all the difference.
In this guide, I answer some of the most common questions about headshot photography, share tips from my personal experience, and offer advice for anyone considering a career behind the camera.

https://www.annemariebickerton.co.uk

1. What should I look for when searching for a photographer to do my headshots?
Recommendations and word-of-mouth referrals are a great place to start.
Always review a photographer’s previous work by browsing their website and social media profiles. Pay attention to the style and quality of their photography.
Check if they specialize in headshots or if they have broader experience in different types of photography — both can be beneficial.
Most importantly, ask yourself: Do you like their work? Trust your instinct and choose someone whose style resonates with you.

2. If I am an actor looking to use the headshots for my “Spotlight” profile, are there specific rules I should follow?
Yes, there are a few important guidelines to keep in mind:

  • The photograph must look like you — authenticity is key.
  • It should be a close-up of your face, typically from the shoulders upwards, and usually in portrait orientation (standard size is 10”x8”).
  • Submit a selection of no more than six images, showcasing slightly different looks — for example, hair styled up and down, smiling and serious expressions. There’s no need for exaggerated acting in your photos.
  • Keep makeup minimal and natural. Simple is best.
  • Your headshot should invite the viewer to want to know more about you, sparking curiosity.
  • If you have facial hair, it’s a good idea to show options both with and without it, helping casting directors visualize you in various roles.
https://www.annemariebickerton.co.uk

3. Is there anything I should avoid before a photoshoot, like spray tans or getting a new haircut?
Absolutely!
Avoid making drastic changes to your appearance just before the shoot.
Skip the heavy spray tans or any extreme fake tanning — you don’t want to look “Tango’d”!
Stay true to your natural look, as the photos need to reflect how you appear in person.

4. What should I do to prepare before the shoot?
Stay in touch with your photographer beforehand. They can offer advice on what clothes to bring and what styles work best.
Connecting with the photographer ahead of time will also help you feel more relaxed and confident on the day.
Plan your journey carefully. Know your route and allow plenty of time so you can arrive calm and not rushed.

https://www.annemariebickerton.co.uk

5. On the big day, how should I arrive at the shoot?
Aim to arrive early.
Give yourself time to settle in, organize your clothes, and make final choices about what you’ll wear.
The more prepared and calm you are, the better your photos will turn out.

6. If I’m not used to posing for the camera, do you have any tips?
Yes!
Most importantly, trust your photographer.
Follow their guidance and instructions — they know how to get the best out of you.
Relax and be yourself. A good photographer will help you feel comfortable and confident.

https://www.annemariebickerton.co.uk

7. How did you become a photographer?
I went straight from school into studying photography at college. After graduating, I joined a small business studio in Victoria called The Downstairs Studio, where I quickly gained valuable experience in headshots and corporate photography.
At just 18 years old, it was both challenging and exciting to find myself covering press releases and presentations, even venturing into the House of Commons!
I made a point of looking up to photographers whose work I admired and started assisting them to gain real-world experience.
Soon after, I joined a studio full-time, using every opportunity to learn about lighting, observe different shoots, and build my own portfolio.
At the time, it was common practice to take your physical portfolio to magazine picture editors and pitch yourself directly.
My first commission came from The Mirror Magazine, and from there, many doors opened.
That was over 30 years ago — and the journey continues!

Annemarie Bickerton in the studio at work https://www.annemariebickerton.co.uk

8. Do you have any tips for those wanting to get into photography?
Assisting established photographers is one of the best ways to break into the industry. Learning directly from professionals is invaluable.
Working as a studio assistant is another great way to meet photographers and build connections.
Be enthusiastic, be helpful, and ask lots of questions!
These days, you also have an incredible range of online resources at your fingertips. Platforms like YouTube offer endless technical guidance.
Research photographers whose work you admire and learn from their approach and style.

https://www.annemariebickerton.co.uk

9. Which photographers do you admire?
David Bailey — an incredible inspiration, especially his approach to portraiture and fashion.
Henri Cartier-Bresson — a master of capturing moments in time and a true storyteller through reportage photography.
Helmut Newton — I loved how he challenged norms and pushed boundaries through his striking portraits.
Of course, there are many others, but these are some of the greats who have shaped my vision.

https://www.annemariebickerton.co.uk

10. You are exhibiting at “Autism and Art” in May. Are you looking forward to it?
Absolutely!
Photography and art offer wonderful ways to communicate and express oneself.
They can also be incredibly therapeutic.
Exhibitions like “Autism and Art” are so important because they inspire others to challenge themselves, find their own creative outlets, and perhaps discover a new passion.
I’m very excited to be part of it and to see how art can continue to open doors and touch lives.

Contact Annemarie https://www.annemariebickerton.co.uk
07968 178885

press media Steven Smith 07969106222 spman@btinternet.com

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Lifestyle People

BUSTOUT 100

Steven Smith pops along to the exhibition thats a breast a head of the others.

Piluca Camino Alcon  and Annemarie Bickerton who did the photography .

BUSTOUT 100: A Powerful Exhibition Raising Awareness for Breast Cancer all photography by Annemarie Bickerton

The BUSTOUT 100 exhibition, designed and executed by  Anne Marie, Bickerton and Piluca Camino Alcon is a striking artistic initiative created to raise awareness of breast cancer in partnership with the Pink Ribbon Foundation. This compelling exhibition showcases a collection of 100 powerful black-and-white portraits, each capturing the essence of resilience, solidarity, and hope.

Dr Anna Kennedy amongst the guest .,

Displayed at Firepit Art Gallery (@art.firepit) in North Greenwich, this exhibition brings together individuals who have faced breast cancer firsthand, alongside those who stand in support—whether they be family members, friends, medical professionals, or advocates. The portraits serve as a testament to courage and unity, reinforcing the impact of collective strength in the face of adversity.

Through striking imagery, BUSTOUT 100 highlights the importance of breast cancer awareness, early detection, and ongoing support for those affected. Each portrait tells a story—of survival, of loss, of love, and of unwavering determination. The black-and-white aesthetic adds depth and emotion, emphasizing the raw and real experiences of those involved.

Piluca Camino Alcon and Steven Smith

The exhibition is not only an artistic endeavor but also a movement, encouraging conversations around breast cancer, breaking down stigmas, and inspiring action. It aims to remind viewers that no one fights alone and that raising awareness can lead to greater support, funding, and medical advancements in the battle against this disease.

Pink Ribbon team Lisa Allen https://www.pinkribbonfoundation.org.uk/news/921-bustout-100

BUSTOUT 100 is being hosted at Firepit Art Gallery (@art.firepit) on Greenwich Peninsula (@greenwich.peninsula) and runs from 7th March to 5th April. Visitors are encouraged to explore the exhibition, reflect on the stories behind the images, and show their support for the Pink Ribbon Foundation (@pinkribbonfoundation) and the incredible individuals depicted in these portraits.

Don’t miss this extraordinary display of strength, unity, and awareness.

Amongst the celebrities that attended were Dj Jojo Kelly , actor Gary Webster Wendy Webster and Victoria Ekanoye

https://www.pinkribbonfoundation.org.uk/news/921-bustout-100

https://www.firepit.art Gary and Wendy Webster .
Victoria Ekanoye

https://www.annemariebickerton.co.uk

Some of the incredible woman who are part of the exhibition .
Categories
Culture Lifestyle People

Scouting Unique Artists in Bangalore: Ragini Chatterjee

Ever wondered about artists in Bangalore?
Ragini Chatterjee transcends one’s expectations and the universal need to put her art out for people, she lets her soul paint
Ragini Chatterjee

I’m always in search of unique art and now that I’m back in my home city, I wanted to explore the world of artists in Bangalore.

I found Ragini Chatterjee in the depths of an Instagram stalking session on a page that promotes young artists in the city.

I was blown away by her ability to not only make me wide-eyed at her work on first glance, but also draw me into the intricacies of her art.

Being away from home and in the UK for a couple of years sidetracked my memory of the rich talent that exists within my own people. I’m so glad my stalking, I mean, research skills led me to Ragini’s mind palace, one that seems to hypnotise me in an instant.

I still can’t stop looking; I had to know the heart behind this enigma. And so I asked her some questions to get know who she is for you and for me.

When did you first recognise your talent? What was your first ever painting?

I’m not sure if it was “talent” or simply my overactive imagination that led me to painting. I spent most of my classes doodling, but my first “proper” drawing, one I remember being proud of, was a sketch of Aang from The Last Airbender. I think I was around 9 years old.

What does your art mean to you?

Art is how I process the world around me. Whether it’s a book, series, or movie I’m captivated by, expressing my excitement through art brings me peace. On a deeper level, art allows me to visualise insights about life that resonate with me. Sharing these pieces is fascinating because others often interpret them in ways that reflect their own experiences, creating a unique dialogue between the viewer and the work.

If you could vouch for other artists, what would your message be to the world about the importance of self-expression?

To anyone who feels deeply—whether you’re an artist or not—self-expression is vital. Whether through art, music, fashion, or dance, it’s a natural outlet that should be embraced. Suppressing this instinct can feel overwhelming, and letting it out often creates something beautiful. In today’s fast-paced world, self-expression serves as a poignant reminder of our shared humanity.

A portrait called ‘Mommy’

There’s an abundance of extraordinary talent such as yourself in India. I’ve come across many who feel overwhelmed by the competition in the creative industry and settle into different industries to survive. What are your thoughts on this? Does survival overrule passion? Or does it depend on how one perceives it?

I feel fortunate to create for myself, but I’d be lying if I said recognition didn’t motivate me. However, I wouldn’t describe the creative industry as “competitive.” This perspective probably stems from my choice not to pursue art as a full-time career. By separating my livelihood from my art, I’ve been able to enjoy the process without the pressure of survival, allowing my passion to thrive independently.

Who or what has inspired you to create your pieces?

Life inspires me—everything from a captivating colour scheme to an idea I need to visualise. For example, I painted Behind the Kitten to challenge the misconception that cuteness equates to weakness. In college, I explored the myth of Icarus to reflect on self-discovery and freedom. During the pandemic, I delved into Pandora’s myth, and more recently, I created a piece about self-care inspired by the idea that you can’t pour from an empty cup.

Explain the creative process behind your work. Is it a cathartic journey? How does it make you feel?

My creative process begins with a need to express something—whether it’s an idea that’s been simmering for weeks or an immediate fascination with a book, movie, or series. Once I find a reference photo, I dive in, spending anywhere from half an hour to a week on the piece. While creating is cathartic, I’m often preoccupied with achieving aesthetic beauty, which makes it challenging to feel fully satisfied with my work.

What do you wish for people to experience through your work?

I hope my art evokes a sense of connection and invites viewers to appreciate its aesthetic qualities.

Tell us about a response you’ve received about your art that made you feel happy or seen.

There isn’t a single comment that stands out, as my satisfaction primarily comes from how I feel about a piece. However, I enjoy hearing reactions like, “Wow, that’s so pretty.” I also love when people share their interpretations of my work—it’s fascinating how their perspectives differ from my own.

You’re currently in Paris. Has the cultural shift played any role in the expansion of your vision? I believe life experiences can elevate one’s art. Tell us about your experience.

While my surroundings have changed, my art remains influenced by similar themes—my life experiences, books, movies, and shows. The cultural shift has enriched my perspective, but I wouldn’t say it has drastically changed the essence of my work.

How can someone find you, your work, and reach out to you?

I have a website where people can leave messages, but the easiest way to connect with me is through Instagram or email.

To reach out to Ragini, email her at raginichatterjee99@gmail.com

Follow the link to view her website https://insidethepaintbox.netlify.app/?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaYbgVU2RrKp4XRHM-w8vq9OSBRCDhJUyi2Ep1Q7Q-mp8yMnyc1sRepMUFA_aem__fVFYF95PY6venhGW_kShA

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Columns Culture Lifestyle People Uncategorized

ART ATTACK

Let the power of art lift you up in these troubling times.

Re print from 2022 by Steven Smith.

Read time:7 minute, 52 seconds 

Art is subjective; arguably anything could be described as art. It has been said that as long as an artist says “what I have made is art” then it is art. Pulling a partially burnt door from the rubble of a derelict building and hanging it on your wall, then spray painting it, could pass as art. In fact, that’s exactly what one artist confessed to me that they once did, and it sold for a good price. But what makes a successful artist? 

Experts in the art world often say that, unless you are represented by a prestigious gallery and have sold your pieces at one of the reputable auction houses for a hefty price, you cannot begin to describe yourself as a leading British or international artist. But in these days of spin and false news, many artists grandly describe themselves as just that – even if it is just on their own web page. That is why an artist being represented by a leading gallery is so important, it protects the consumer and cradles the artist. It is like good management for actors.

Your correspondent with actor and Loose Woman Denise Welch supporting her husband Lincoln Townley art https://lincolntownley.com

For me, if I walk into an exhibition and instantly see that an artist’s inspiration is another artist then I am not excited about their work. I am fine with artists being influenced by other artists’ work but if an artist recognisably channels legends such as Warhol, Bacon, Tracey Emin and Damien Hirst perhaps they need to rethink …

Hearing a truly talented, unique artist’s voice call out from their work is what captures me. It can send goosebumps up my neck when a crafted artist’s work is powerfully on display.

Take inspiration from the masters by all means but when your art is the equivalent to an X-factor contestant belting out someone else’s song, and a poor version of it at that, a great artist you are not. You may well be on the path to becoming one as long as, like many in the craft, you dedicate yourself to finding your own voice.

This is usually my favourite time of year as Frieze comes to town and the best galleries from around the world showcase their finest artists. Held in Regents Park, you can submerge yourself in an orgy of talented modern artists. Along with Frieze Masters, it feels like Christmas has come.

Sadly, Frieze, like many other events has moved online, but has offered lectures and courses and hopefully further experiences for art enthusiasts. It is be back in its typical glory now when this is all over. 

The landmark Venice art festival “La Biennale” is still set to go ahead next year, with the British entry selected by the Hayward Gallery and British Art Council. Next year, we are represented by curators Manijeh Verghese and Madeleine Kessler, who are bringing a diverse range of art to the British tent. La Biennale shows every two years, with the last showing in 2019, represented by British artist Cathy Wilkes. It’s the cream of the art shows, and I was lucky to attend in 2017 as a guest of Israeli artist Michele Cole. I still get excited about my trip; it is a memory that will stay with me for life. It is well worth going.

At the 2017 Biennale – artist Michal Cole https://www.meijler.com/michal

The arts have suffered grievously during the pandemic, with many galleries and exhibition halls still closed. It was a ray of light to be invited by LGBTQ+ international artist, Pedro Sousa Louro, to the opening of START at the Saatchi Gallery. His work received rave reviews when he showed at the Kunstmesse art fair in Germany. Pedro, originally from Portugal, resides in Chelsea and has a studio in Wimbledon. Pedro was educated at the Chelsea College of Arts in London. Among his army of fans are celebrities such as Frankie Goes to Hollywood’s Holly Johnson. 

Holly Johnson (l) with Pedro Sousa Louro

Holly says of Pedro’s work “I like the fact that his art does not mean anything in particular. It is geometry for the sake of geometry “ 

Going into its seventh year, START showcases new and established artists, attracting international exhibitors, although the artists at START must pay to show their work. START gives voice to artists hoping to make a name for themselves on a global stage while providing the perfect platform for new collectors to discover talent that might otherwise have gone unseen. 

Included in this year’s programme is Korean Eye 2020, a teaser exhibition that gives an insight into the work of some of Korea’s most exciting young artists. 

START founders, David and Serenella Ciclitira, were determined to support artists and push ahead with this year’s show, despite many sceptics. They recognise the difficulties faced by the art world during these tumultuous times. They appreciate that many people are not ready to return to galleries amidst the ongoing pandemic. They have made START a world leader that combines both online and physical reality. The Ciclitiras are aiming to make START a leader in the ‘phygital’ world, which marries both the physical environment and the online digital world at the same time

‘Serenella and I are committed to playing our part in supporting artists and galleries, and in getting the art-world as a whole back open for business.’ 

David Ciclitira

2020 has been a challenging year, to say the least. It is a time when we must adapt and innovate; we must come together, united, for the greater good of all our fellow artists and galleries. 

The Saatchi gallery is one of the great London venues and brings a beautiful addition to the trendy Kings Road. My date for the open day was our Editor, Rob Harkavy. He was all suited and booted for the occasion. You can’t help but love the gallery the minute you walk in. For me, it is my dream home; it has been my fantasy to live in a gallery since I studied art as a teenager.

The celebrities were out in force. Anthea Turner was on hand to support David Bowie 20/20 Vision; a collection of photographs by Tony McGee, award-winning British photographer and friend of Bowie. This unique collection of never-before-seen images were hand-selected ‘on set’ by Bowie himself as a reflection of his own inner image, and are as powerful as they are poignant, beautifully capturing the essence of the shapeshifting, beguiling, enigmatic superstar. It blew me away. Anyone looking to buy me something for Christmas at £4k, one of these, please! 

Loose Woman and award-winning actress, Denise Welch, was chatting to people at her husband’s section, the former PR-man-turned-artist, Lincoln Townley. Welch’s son, Louis Healy (star of Emmerdale) was also in attendance. Michael Caine has previously shared that he is a fan of Townley’s work. 

The beautiful Gail Porter was also present and chatted to us. She was just charming.

START is well worth going to. The atmosphere is exciting, and there are one or two gems, depending on your taste. START also has a great bar on the third floor, where the Korean exhibition is, and there is some stunning work there.

Also open is the Brighton Museum; a hidden gem, but trust me, a must for everyone visiting the legendary gay seaside town. Among the exhibitions is Queer on the Pier. This community-curated display peers into local LGBTQ+ history. Celebrating the lives of the writers, artists, performers, activists and ordinary people who have made Brighton & Hove so fabulous, their stories are brought to life with film and photography, fashion and drag and oral histories. It is part of Be Bold, a series of collaborative exhibitions and events, programmed with Brighton & Hove’s LGBTQ+ communities.

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Culture Lifestyle People

Art and soul. Meet global art sensation Pedro Sousa Louro.

Steven chats over coffee with art sensation Pedro Sousa Louro

Pedro Sousa Louro is one of the most talked-about LGBTQ artists at the moment. The Portuguese born painter is exciting the art world with his blend of styles and fresh take on painting.

Educated at the Chelsea College of Arts in London, Pedro’s work caught the attention of many at the prestigious Kunstmesse art fair in Germany last year.  He is also among the headliners at the START art show this autumn at the Saatchi Gallery. Our very own art connoisseur, Steven Smith, catches up with him at his studio in Wimbledon. 


Do you remember the first painting you ever did and what made you want to become an artist?

I was fascinated by Greek and Roman statues, especially the beauty of the naked form and the stillness from an early age. It caused quite a stir when my first drawing at school was a statue, and some teachers were not impressed, though others thought it was great. Of course, my style at the time was hardly refined, and to some eyes, it may have looked like mischief-making. 

Either way, art captured my imagination from an early age and creating images was something that excited me. So, becoming an artist was something that has always been at the forefront of my life.

Who in the art world influences you?

Francis Bacon and Picasso, as well as Dame Rachel Whiteread and Robert Rauschenberg. Art is always a personal thing, and these artists really speak to me. When I am looking at their work, it moves me and inspires me to create.

What training did you do to become an artist?

I graduated with an Arts degree from the Chelsea College of Arts in 1998. Two decades later, I graduated from the Kensington and Chelsea Art College in Abstract Expressionism and Abstract Vision. 

Your work has been shown all over Europe, and you are appearing later this year at START in the Saatchi Gallery London. Can you tell us a little about START and do your audiences differ from country to country?

It is my first time exhibiting at the Saatchi Gallery and START Art Fair in London. The timing could not be better. It is an honour to be a part of this prestigious event and a chance to network with new artists as well as established ones. The fair is a global gathering of artists and gives new talent a chance to show their work. 

Last year my work was shown at the fifth Kunstmesse art fair in Leipzig, Germany. I do not think that the audiences differ. In every show that I have been a part of, people have been enthusiastic and inspiring. 

https://www.startkx.com/exhibitions/

What advice would you give to a young artist starting out?

It is not easy at all to be an artist seeking recognition, especially in these modern ages, where social media platforms are making a colossal and gigantic difference in the careers of artists. I’m one of them! I want to be recognised by the public and by the established art scene. I want my artwork and my abstract visual language on our new modern living expressionism to be taken seriously as another important artist legacy and statement. The advice is only one. Don’t stop working even in times when it seems you aren’t going anywhere. If we don’t stop working, we’ll arrive somewhere, and that is inevitable. If you don’t stop creating you will arrive somewhere – a good place or a not-so-good place – but you’ll arrive somewhere!

How do you think COVID has affected the arts and LGBTQ community in general?

I have seen artists, where I have my studio, for instance, leaving their studios because they cannot afford the rent or because they have lost their other jobs, the direct income support of their lives. It is unfortunately sad, but on the other side, I have seen so many artists making sales over the internet and on social media platforms. Some of them did exceptionally well. 

Do you think that with apps like Grindr and Scruff being so popular, romance is dying?

Inevitably, yes. The technology of these sex and social apps on our phones completely eradicate so many vital personal elements of each one of us. From educational factors to responsible factors and so on, this new way of interaction between us has changed so profoundly that romance has become an old-fashioned item, not even vintage!     

Some of our best British artists have been LGBTQ, from Francis Bacon, David Hockney to sculptress Maggie Hambling. How much does your sexuality influence your artwork?

I have heard so many different views and opinions about my work being too connected with my sexuality. There are people from galleries from the art world itself, saying that it is 100% related to and influenced by my sexuality. I just let them talk and say what they want. 

I would say between 50% to 70% is undoubtedly associated with my sexuality. But there are quite significant elements which come from my art studies and the art research that I attach to my creativity.

How does your family feel about your work?

My parents still live in Portugal. My dad is the silent type, and my mum is vocal about her love of my art. They are both proud. My sister lives in Oxford, and she is a huge fan, I am hoping she will be at START. I am one of six children, and we are all proud of one another.

What would you like to see happening in the art world in the future?

I would like to see myself happening more, actually. I would like to see myself coming out as a more established artist, flourishing and gaining recognition worldwide. Yes, it’s all about me! Well, why not? 

QUICKFIRE ROUND

Your favourite restaurant in London?

Right now, Sexy Fish in Mayfair. Amazing Asiatic food.

The one thing you find to be a turn off in others?

Their selfish, cynical side that makes them think they can always get away without doing the work. 

The most romantic place in London?

I think London is a very romantic city, but for me, Chelsea Embankment is a more private environment. It is so romantic. 

What is one thing you would change about London if you were the mayor for a day?

As Mayor of London for just one day, I think I would want to make all galleries and transport free .

What is your favourite film?

Well, I used to have a favourite film, The Bridges of Madison County with Meryl Streep, but now I have so many. So, now anything with Cate Blanchett for me is a good movie. She is my new obsession! 

www.pedrosousalouro.co.uk

Categories
Culture

ALL RISE FOR FLUX

FLUX WHERE EXCEPTIONAL ART COMES TOGETHER UNDER ONE ROOF
From Thursday the 25th of July to Sunday the 28th of July
GUIDED BY THE QUEEN OF CULTURE LADY LISA GRAY https://www.fluxexhibition.com/flux-exhibitions/
Flux opens with a bang international artists Lisa Izquirado shows her work to moving art celebrity drag queens Liquorice Black , Anna Phylactic .

Steven meets one of the leading lights of THE FLUX exhibition Lisa Izquirado .

“The true strength of a woman is our ability to allow ourselves to be vulnerable.”

Lilli – artist 

Even without meeting an artist, a great artist’s work talks to you. For me, I walk in and am almost immediately hypnotised by the story or emotion they are transferring to canvas. Sometimes I can even feel their pain or trauma running through my veins for a moment, as well as the joy and happiness.

A devotee of S and M, Francis Bacon´s brilliant work can never be copied. Not just because of the magnitude of skill, but also due to the parts of Bacon´s often tortured soul that he liberally poured into his work. I remember his sold out exhibition at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. A news anchor interviewed various attendees about Bacon’s work, among them a psychologist who commented, “I would love to have had a chance to counsel him!” I could not have laughed harder and wanted to retort “Really my dear, he would have wiped the floor with you”.

It is what makes Frida Kahlo so unique too, not just the skill, but you can feel her energy and fight for life through her work; you just cannot tear your eyes away. It is almost a shame she has become a fashionable artist associated with style. Her story is so much more powerful than anything linked to fashion. But in the same breath it has to be said (thanks to Madonna and others) it has brought Kahlo´s work to the masses and encouraged many who may not have sat at the art table before to explore what it has to offer.

I am always on the lookout for exciting new artists . There is no better place than to take yourself to one of The FLUX Exhibitions https://www.fluxexhibition.com/flux-exhibitions/ created by Lisa Gray her presence commands great art to surround her there is something for everyone’s taste and these events are well worth looking out for

With Lisa Gray creator of FLUX magazine and Exhibition.

My personal favourite that stood out was by an artist called Lilli. Full name Lisa Lilli Izquierdo. Knowing my art, I was not surprised that the Cheshire born former model 

was also showing in New York and Madrid. There is something about her work that is almost haunting. To be frank, on first impressions I almost felt it was a little too commercial for my tastes and saw it as an inferior designer´s dream, with pieces sought in Dubai, Cyprus and USA for its stylish quality. But first impressions can be wrong and the more I delved into Lilli´s work, the more it spoke to me.  There is however a story that makes her work so much more valuable and sitting down with her confirmed just that. 

Do you remember the very first thing you ever drew as a child?

I have always been creative.  My sister was the academic, so my mum encouraged my artistic side. My earliest memory of creating art was when I was three years old. I drew a picture of two flowers. I coloured them with different colour crayons. The teacher told me off as I had used the same colour in each flower. Looking back, I use a lot of monochrome in my work. 

It makes me giggle that I got scolded for.

What other artists have inspired you?

Oh, without a doubt Monet. I can see his use of texture has a huge influence on me as a grown artist. I draw a lot of energy from other artists, and I can appreciate those that depict suffering or hurt. But when it comes to my personal taste, Monet´s calmness and beauty 

fill me with a beautiful energy,

What demographic does your art appeal to?

A lot of women buy my art. From an early age I have been fascinated by the female form. 

I used to draw a lot of elfin kind of women. There is something I think women see – the beauty of the female form in my art – and relate to it. Being pushed to look a certain way as model was not healthy and I am careful to depict woman as real now, not nymph like. 

Music seems to play a part in art. Who are your favourite musicians? What does sound bring to your art?

Honestly a huge influence and my tastes are so diverse. As soon as I am in the studio 

I pop the headphones on, and I am blasting Mozart or Snoop Dog. Vivaldi’s four seasons 

is one of my favourites.

How do you feel about the growing trend of crypto art, and is it something you would consider?

Steven I am so badly informed about the trend it is hard for me to comment; I am not sure how it would transfer with the high amount of texturing in my art. I realise that the world moves on and I will keep an eye on it, but I took bitcoins for a print and that did not work out too well for me. 

Lisa Shows in London at FLUX https://www.fluxexhibition.com/flux-exhibitions/

Your art is almost haunting in its affect. How much does it mirror your own life?

Very much so. My piece “The Kiss” may seem very abstract, but it is about the unity 

of two people in love. It could be any two people. For me I have found love perhaps later in life, but I plan to marry next year.

I found great solace in my art; it has helped me heal from the modelling industry I entered at the age of 15. Eager to become a success I took off to Madrid on my own. However, it was not long until the dream became somewhat traumatic, as pressures to look a certain way and the sheer competitiveness at a young age began to take its toll on my mental health.

Eventually I had enough and turned to my family business of hairdressing. My father is from Valencia in Spain, He worked with the likes of Vidal Sassoon and Teasy Weasy. I found 

using my skills as an artist, plus having lived a little more than most at an early age, gave me an empathetic ear for clients. I still do hairdressing now and combine my time between my art studio and the salon.

2Shades Steven Smith with artist Lisa https://www.fluxexhibition.com/flux-exhibitions/

If you could buy one piece of Art, what would it be?

Irises in Monet´s Garden. It personifies calmness with an almost heavenly feel. Those little purple flowers hit you with an amazing feel. 

If you could invite four people to dinner, dead or alive, who would they be, and why?

Ricky Gervais. I just love him he is hysterical, and life should be about love and laugher. 

My financé as he and Ricky would get on. Michelle Obama. I love a strong woman in any event and she is captivating. Someone like Elvis would shake things up!

What is your favourite city to spend a day in looking at art?

Madrid or Barcelona. When I was modelling, we used maps to get around then and the architecture just blew me away as does Barcelona.

What is the one common misconception about you?

That I am a bitch! I was working in a salon and some of the female hairdressers seemed off- hand. When I got chatting to one, she suddenly went, “You know you’re really nice. We all thought you were a bitch.” God, talk about putting people in boxes. There is also the idea that I am super confident.  If people knew the real me, I am quite shy. Do not get me wrong, I am a strong woman when I need to be. 

What is the one thing you would like to change about the UK if you were prime minster for a day?

The homeless problem. It has become truly shocking in the UK, not just London, but all over. 

We are a civilised country, yet we have way too many people sleeping on the streets. 

What is the next project we can expect from you? 

It takes around 80 hours to create each piece. I am going to be spending more time in the studio over the coming year, working on a new collection. 

https://lisa-lili-izquierdo.com/about