A lovely Artist Parent interview with Leanne Van @leannevanloves, an artist from Newton-le-Willows, UK.
Tell us about yourself?
I am a mural artist and illustrator, who has been self employed for over 5 years. I like to create bold, colourful artwork that is uplifting and positive. I especially love to portray people in all their uniqueness - celebrating both our differences and commonalities.
How has being a parent had a positive impact on your artistic practice?
I find myself wanting to make more of a positive impact with my art. I would like to portray the world in a positive light, in the hope that my daughter will learn to focus on the good in this world.
What are the challenges you have faced in your artistic practice being a parent?
My daughter is only 6 months old, so I am still struggling to find some sort of rhythm in between the sleepless nights! Finding time to think about my art is a challenge, as well as having the mental capacity to be creative at this point.
Any advice for other Artist Parents and how they can continue to nurture their practice?
I have already learnt that there is only so much you can plan. Even when you think you have carved out some time for yourself, it can all change at the drop of the hat. So at the moment I am just trying to not put too much pressure on creating, although I am often thinking about it. Before my maternity leave ends, I am going to spend some time planning the kind of work I need to prioritise, the clients I need to approach, and the updates I need to do to my website. I hope that by tackling my to-do list a little at a time, I can start working/creating again with a clear mind.
Is there anything else you would like to say, share or promote?
I recently completed a commissioned mural for the Warrington Art Festival, named "I Am Because You Are", which is installed at the Golden Square shopping mall. It consists of 6 portraits depicting the different kinds of people that make up the community of Warrington. I painted this when my daughter was 3 months old, and I am very proud of this body of work.
Thank you to Leanne for sharing her story and thank you for reading. If you would like to read more stories or for your work to be shared then follow and tag @artist_parent on Instragam.
Uploaded 23rd October 2024