Lara von Waldenburg
Painting has been my passion and profession since graduating from Parsons School of Design, N.Y.C in 1990. Throughout my life, as a first generation Canadian, I have resided, painted and been inspired by various settings; from the shores of Newfoundland to Vermont, New York, Massachusetts to the south western desert of Arizona and up to the pacific north west of Idaho, Vancouver and then settling in Chilliwack B.C.
My work has always been heavily influenced by my direct descent both French and German and my childhood and lifelong experiences in Paris, the French Alps and being partially raised by my German grandparents who immigrated to N.Y. in the fifties.
Growing up with free spirited European parents, we lived and experienced a variety of places. I gained an expanded perspective and an open mind. Beginning in Newfoundland where stories are lively and imaginations are free. The wind would howl as music was played and poetry recited. I spent summers in the heart of Paris amongst historical sites and the deep history as my maternal grandmother captivated and nourished us with stories of the city, country and family. She brought us to the rocks and roots of the Alps where we lived our summers in the same houses where our great grandparents were born. Through story telling my connection to sense of place and belonging are deeply grounded.
Much time was spent in NY state with my Grandparents who were artists, musicians and painters. My paternal grandmother was also a story teller and spun us into a world of magic, folklore and darkness. She evoked fear, wonder and creativity.
My artwork tells stories about places, humanity and our connection to history and time through landscape and memory. My artwork talks about nature and the roots that run deep and long within and around us.
Often starting with eyes closed, drawing a spontaneous foundation of lines from which I determine the image. Once the vision is found I work while maintaining a playfulness that requires simultaneous listening and telling. I search to arrive at the truth. The truth is where the story lives.
In regards to the textured work the approach is much the same only the textures are what determine the image instead of the lines. The process is carving and shaping with monochromatic paint. Giving voice to what speaks out from the original paper.
I continue to explore narratives and incorporating written word as part of the story. Working in sketchbooks with collage and various mediums is where I find great freedom.
My paintings have been exhibited over the years in various locations including: Vancouver, New York, Los Angeles, Berlin and Scottsdale. Some of my Paintings have traveled to and/or sold in France, China, Germany, Argentina, U.S.A and Canada.
Art work has been featured in ArtisSpectrum art magazine May 2011 and on the book cover of 'The Garden Party' by Katherine Mansfield, Published in Korea 2010 and in the 2005/2006 published edition of New Art International (Book Art Press) - collection of selected artists.
I am currently painting in my home studio. I co-own Inner Vision Yoga where I teach. My time is frequently spent in nature with my husband hiking mountains, kayaking, exploring our beautiful landscapes, enjoying playing with my grandson and enjoying the arts in Vancouver with my family of actors, clowns, dancers, choreographers and designers. Including our adult children who continue expanding their own creative and productive endeavors.