Leisl Baker

Artist Interview

What medium do you work with, and why have you chosen them?

I work mostly with oil paint and I particularly love to paint alla-prima (wet on wet) using generous lickings of lustrous paint. I often use Acrylic paint in my botanical work as it allows me to push colour boundaries more freely.

How does your artwork get from initial concept to exhibition stage?

My work is inspired by a subject that holds my attention or interest (or makes me feel a certain way). Often multiple works can come from the one subject. I look for the composition that best suits its nature and from there I paint (either directly or from images or sketches). I like to work quite quickly (and not everything makes it), but those that do have some element of the energy I was working to capture.

Can you tell us a little more about your creative working environment/studio?

I am very lucky to have a big old shed as a studio and a little space off to the side where I can hang work and pretend I have a gallery! I work against a wall that has consistent all day light and can take large panels. My palette is an old table nearby. Everything is set up to make it easy to work. I also like to paint en plein air and I have a big toolbox on wheels that holds pretty much everything I need (plus gives me a spot to lean against or sit on!) Although the elements can be challenging when working outdoors, I find it so incredibly nourishing spending time in a space and making work on site.