Lara Tees

Tell us a little bit about yourself?
I create contemporary landscapes and abstract art from my Melbourne studio. I love the Australian landscape, and I take much of my inspiration from the colours and textures of this amazing country. I've lived on three continents and my family is widely dispersed. This influences my work, which explores connections - what it means to call a place home, what it feels like to belong. My work captures the experience of being in a place - the sights, sounds, and feelings that it evokes. 

What is your favourite drink? English breakfast tea, medium strength with a splash of milk (although I’ll drink it black in a pinch).  Regular cups just aren’t big enough for me - I need a jumbo sized mug!

What inspired you to start painting/drawing? I’ve always loved art and being creative. Some of my earliest memories are of images I created in school during art class. But then life got in the way (I became an accountant!) and I didn't spend as much time with my art, until about 12 years ago when I started painting and drawing regularly again. My art is now a central part of my life. I love the creative process and finding different ways to express myself. 

How can we support you? I’d love for you to sign up to my mailing list at www.laratees.com/subscribe. I share occasional updates on new work, upcoming events and exhibitions (no spam!).

What advice would you give other artists/creatives starting out?
Experiment - try different mediums and surfaces until you find what you love to work with. Give yourself time and freedom from expectations - your skills are developed through practice and repetition. Enjoy the process and try not to think too much about the outcome (easier said than done!

You can see more of Lara’s work here.