Congratulations to artist Christine Maclaren, our latest Instagram winner! Christine is a mixed media artist and the creative force behind LÉVADÉ Artistic Studio. After living in Ottawa for 20 years, Christine recently moved back to New Brunswick to reconnect with nature and for a slower paced life with her young children.
Does where you're from or where you currently live influence your work?
Absolutely, hence why I recently moved back to NB. Nature holds a special place in my heart, and it serves as a constant source of inspiration. Its tranquil and unhurried existence evokes a sense of nostalgia, reminding me of a simpler and more beautiful life filled with predictable continuity.
What's your art background?
As a self-taught artist, I established LÉVADÉ as a means of escaping the challenges that life has presented to all of us. It grants me the precious moments of solitude to focus solely on my thoughts and emotions.
Are you a full time artist or do you create around work hours?
I am now a full time mother, homemaker and artist.
Describe the type of art you create.
Perfectionist by nature, I find comfort in the organized continuity that comes with a touch of obsessive precision, which explains my affinity for geometric art. This style also enables me to build intricate stories through the interplay of different mediums and the creation of vibrant colors.
What do you love about the mediums that you use?
Exploring various mediums is a passion of mine. Each medium possesses unique qualities that evoke distinct emotional responses. I try them all, but I'm obsessed with high viscosity acrylic and resin.
When did you discover resin? How has resin impacted your artwork?
Around 5 years ago, I stumbled upon resin and embarked on a journey of trial and error with different brands. Amongst them all, ArtResin has emerged as my ultimate favorite. Resin has revolutionized my art creations! The glossy mirror effect it produces elevates the intensity of color saturation to a whole new level.
Can you provide a brief rundown of your process?
1. Panel prep: Gesso, tape.
2. Tinted resin background and/or acrylic.
3. Acrylic drips, one by one. Requires extreme patience and precision to keep clean edges.
4. Resin coating.
Why do you want to make art? What motivates you to create?
Art creation is my outlet to self-care.
Does art help you in other areas of your life?
Indeed, art has a unique ability to calm the mind and encourage living in the present
moment.
What do you hope someone sees or feels when they look at your art?
A sense of peace, joy and happiness.
How do you define success as an artist? What does success look and feel like for you?
Defining success can be challenging, but ultimately, self-pride is the most important factor. Success is as important as a family member’s encouragement, that’s all I thrive for. Other compliments and commissions are the frosting on the cake!
Where do you sell your work?
Mostly online: www.levadestudio.com
To see more of Christine's work:
Visit her website: www.levadestudio.com
Follow her on Instagram: @levade.studio
Congratulations on your win, Christine!
Every month, to celebrate our community of artists, ArtResin will send out a 32 oz kit to two lucky people who have tagged us on Instagram, showing the work they've created with ArtResin.
ArtResin: Made For Artists, By Artists.
