Experiencing an artist's work in person always reveals a newfound perspective; identifying elements in the evolution of their artistry. As we stand on the cusp of the upcoming show with Laura Naples at the gallery formerly known as CAS GALLERY opening in June, we were able to catch up with Laura to take a look into her studio and gain insights into the work in the show and her process.
When looking at Laura's work you cannot help but notice the dream-like color pallete, the soft layers of tone and texture with shapes emerging or brush strokes leading your eye. As the background of the works in the show range the spectrum of light to dark they each have a peaceful sense of stillness and movement despite their differences.
This collection tells the story about the energetic flow between spaces and beings. Created over the span of about a year, these paintings capture my curiosity through experiments with motion of diluted acrylic paint. Each painting offers a window into rituals of connection. Each piece evolved with questions and intentional responses. The works were chosen for the collection as a conversation to compliment and challenge one another.
Lyma I and Lyma II in progress above.
When talking to Laura about her process , what informs her and how she develops her works she references "love...a practice of loving", and sites natural beauty and beauties shaped by hand as the informant.
All of my work is about what I love, and about the practice of loving. It is a distillation of inspiration from the natural world and things shaped by human hands. I love to explore the relationships that reveal the beauty within and among objects. As an artist, I collect elements that make me pause and wonder. The captivating color and texture of minerals, the form of flora and architecture, or the gestural lines of a dancer may become the catalyst for a painting.
In the studio, I experiment with these arresting influences as I search for the spark of a new work. Subsequent layers are arranged in both intentional and spontaneous formation, reflecting the control and surrender that balance my own relational experiences. I alternately pour and brush the paint onto the canvas, guiding its flow by tilting the canvas in different directions, or pausing to let it pool and dry on its own. At intervals, I ask myself: “Does this feel true?” If the answer is yes, it belongs. When a circumstance during the process veers outside of my initial intentions, I step back to find a serendipitous moment to reimagine and realign the elements.
Auro in progress above.
As I make connections through trial and play, I generate the same feeling of love that initially drew my attention toward the elements that inspired it. I know a work is complete when I see it with loving eyes. I hope that the viewer may be empowered to apply their own lens and experiences to feel this imbued love through a sense of solace, peace, and balance in their encounter.
Vere, 2022. 40 x 30"
Make sure to plan to visit our upcoming show featuring Laura Naples' work - opening June 3, 2022.
LAURA NAPLES
A graphic designer turned painter, Laura Naples employs color, stroke, layering, and varied use of media in an abstract style. Experimenting out of her Cleveland, Ohio studio, her work and surroundings are an evolving study in the arrangement of movements, rhythms, and stimuli. Inspired by interiors, dance, and fashion, Laura's method often involves planning and studying composition. She is more at ease with order over chaos but is thrilled by inspired episodes that drive the creative process on autopilot.
