Julia Lafferty is a Cornwall-based painter, who specialises in capturing those special moments during nostalgic, happy days spent by the coast. Her artwork often reflects the changing seasons and the mood of the ocean; bringing vibrant colour to where the sea meets the life, history and community of beaches, coastal towns and fishing villages.
We caught up with Julia to discuss her style, method, inspiration and some of her newest artwork.
1. How long have you been painting for?
I can't remember when I started painting exactly, but I do have memories of being a very small child and my Artist father giving me Chinese painting lessons; painting a lot of Chinese style chicks for Easter cards. From there, my interest in art and painting continued into my adult life.
2. Does your background influence your artwork?
I was not a very academic child and my family greatly encouraged the development of my artwork with the focus being on expression and colour. In that sense, I suppose you could say that my upbringing did influence, my artwork. I also live in the countryside by the coast, so my surroundings and the people and animals around me certainly influence the subject matter of my artwork.
My method has certainly changed over time, as I have learnt more, seen and practised different styles, however there has always been a distinct style that gets into all my paintings. I feel that my use of colour and expressionism has remained steady over the years.
4. Who do you hope your artwork appeals to?
I am lucky enough to live in the countryside and the coast, so my paintings are based on my surroundings, family and animals. I think that the subject matter of my work relates to a wide range of people on a personal level, but often to people that have a, emotional or physical connection to the coast and its surrounding areas.
I have several commissions that I am currently working on, which bring up new and exciting challenges in themselves. I would also like to walk more of the coastal path with my camera and sketch book and capture different scenes and weathers in my paintings. The amazing thing about nature is that it is ever-changing, meaning my artwork is constantly evolving and changing with it.
