When did you start your creative practice and why?
When Graphic Design moved away from traditional methods to computers I decided to pursue my interests in calligraphy and watercolour painting.
How would you describe your artistic style to someone unfamiliar with your work?
Representational: you’d recognise my subject, there’s no ‘rubbing your chin and wondering what is it?’
What themes or ideas do you find yourself returning to most often?
Flowers always cheer me, I usually paint what I’ve grown so I get to enjoy them in the
garden, in a vase and in a painting. Landscape too; I only paint places that I’ve visited so my paintings evoke memories.
What is your creative process from idea to finished piece is it always the same?
My process isn’t always the same. It can take years to develop an idea for a landscape
painting due to access issues or finding a ‘weather window’. At other times I notice what’s around me and see what I can develop from that.
Is there a particular piece of yours that feels especially meaningful? Why?
A waterfall painting completed shortly after I opened my studio was, I felt, a significant step up.
What do you find challenging as an artist, and how do you overcome these challenges?
The challenge of needing to be a salesman; I haven’t found a remedy other than trusting my work to the right gallery.
Do you ever have creative blocks, how do you keep motivated?
I do have blocks. I find that ‘play’ - painting without expectation of any particular outcome – can help; it can feel indulgent but may undo a block and lead to a new subject or theme.
How does your immediate environment or location play in your work?
It can offer direct inspiration, such as a beautiful view that I wish to portray, or a shaft of light hitting a piece of glass that triggers curiosity in what/why/how?
Who are the artists (past or present) who have strongly influenced you? The watercolour painters who have influenced me are contemporary ones e.g. David Bellamy, Hazel Soan, Lucy Willis.
How has your style or perspective evolved over time?
I still put a lot of detail into most of my paintings but I work larger and, occasionally, much looser, allowing the water to do more work than the brush.
What tools, materials, or techniques are essential to your practice? Is there a colour you just couldn't do without?
I use a small number of materials and stick to favourite brands. I couldn’t do without
Ultramarine, mixing it with Burnt Umber to give me a range of blues, greys and browns.
Have you got a project / award/ residency/ or idea are you excited to share with us?
A second Search Press book was published in March: Ready to Paint Postcards: Mountains
If your work could evoke one feeling or reaction in viewers, what would it be?
A ‘wow’ is quite satisfying; it’s good to share the joy that I get from watercolours and the subjects that I’ve painted.
What is your website and how do we find you on social media?
My website www.lesleylinley.co.uk (horribly neglected - needs updating).
I’m not great with social media either, but I post occasionally on facebook Lesley Linley @PaintSkye.
