Meet the Artist - Lucy Moore

When did you first start painting?

I have always loved painting and drawing, I took art GCSE at secondary school but found it very restrictive, there was no allowance for you to express yourself freely.

I took A Level art thinking that this would give me the freedom to flourish but I found it all too controlling and lost my love for all things art.

I went back to my paintbrush about 7 years ago after some encouragement from friends. It was just the start of great things to come, I never imagined in just a few years I would turn my hobby into a full time career.

What made you decide to become a full time artist and do you have any top tips for new artists and any regrets?

After 3 years of selling my work whilst working part time I was finding it difficult to keep up with the demands at both ends, I knew I didn’t want to give up painting but I was unsure whether or not I could make a living painting full time. Having my partner Alan’s support really helped. He told me to just go for it and what’s the worst that could happen?

My top tip for any artist jumping into the deep end would be don’t take on a commission if you know you’re not going to enjoy the process, I took on a lot because I was worried about failing and found some of the paintings a real chore to get through. My other tip would be don’t skimp on materials, quality is important, especially if you’re going to sell pieces for hundreds of pounds.

Which artist’s inspire you and what inspires you?

I’m a huge fan of abstract work. My favourite artist is Jackson Pollock who is famous for helping create a whole new art movement called Abstract Expressionism.

The drip technique he used to create his paintings I use to create the grassy fields in my meadows.

Do you paint plein air, photographs or memory?

Most of what I create comes from my imagination, sometimes I do take pictures for colour references or for composition. I have tried plein air but it doesn’t really work for me.

Do you have any exciting plans for this year ahead ?

I’m looking forward to being a part of Wychwood’s seasonal exhibition which takes place in their gallery in Deddington.

I’m also currently in the planning stage of using my abstract style pieces to create hanging wall sculptures, I have my materials ready but I am just working out the technicalities and what possible problems could arise before I get started.

Despite the difficulties that have been going on I have been very lucky to be able to continue to work and spend my days creating in my studio.