Interview with the First Place Winner of our March Show – Simona Zecca
“Undercurrents” {Colored Pencil} by Jesse Lane was selected as a Second Place Winner in our July Show. Here is a short interview with the artist.
1. Jesse, how did you start creating art?
I began drawing when I was 15. It was with colored pencil, which I still use today. Back then drawing was a means of having something that was mine. Born with dyslexia, I had no talent at most things and wanted to have one thing I could do well. I did anime drawings back then, which took about four hours. Today my drawings take up to 1,000 hours and showcase photorealism depicting images of imaginative struggle.
2. What is your work inspiration ?
I get inspired by feelings and underwater scenery. When we see underwater images, we get a glimpse of a fantasy world, but that’s all it ever is… a glimpse. With my work, I create above-water emotions that take place underwater, telling stories that lead the viewer to analyze the dichotomy of the weightless aquatics and the heavy inner emotions. The ocean becomes a place of solitude.
3. What quarantine has meant to you? Was it difficult to work in isolation and what effect this unprecedented time had on your work and creativity?
Quarantine was a transition for me, but largely things have been the same. The most important thing I’ve noticed is the importance of going outside a little every day.
4. What do you think about trends in contemporary art?
It’s not something I think much about. I think about where I want to go with my work. Embrace what makes you unique.
5. Please tell us a bit about your current work and some future projects.
For years, I’ve done close-up portraits of people, many with water. I plan on continuing that, but I’ve also started taking more ambitious risks with my work, drawing imaginative, complex underwater pieces. I’ve recently finished my second underwater piece, and I’m planning my third. It will take me over 1,000 hours.
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