In the Studio with Artist Camila Leão Lopes
Today, we’re going In the Studio with artist Camila Leão Lopes. Lopes’ artwork will be on display in the Chesapeake Arts Center’s Voices of Hispanic & Latinx Artists gallery exhibit, September 7 - October 17.
Camila Leão is a visual artist specializing in illustration, painting, public art, and graphic design. Originally from Brazil, Camila recently moved to Baltimore and has been active in the local art community, participating in a number of projects. Her art style features vibrant colors, mixed textures and fluid elements. Most recently, she was featured in Baltimore Magazine and designed the artwork for the largest sculpture in the city of Essex, Maryland. Camila's art depicts her connection to the surrounding nature and world, as is inspired by her South American origins. Her work is featured on various surfaces, including canvases and street/ city structures.
What style, genre or medium of art excites you the most?
What ignites my creative passion the most is generally any bold and contemporary expression. I love art that pulsates with vibrant colors, and when it comes to my painting, I try to embrace minimalism of flat design.
However, as a versatile visual artist, I love the opportunity to experiment across different mediums. This exploration allows me to include textures and different styles into my illustrations. The notion of crafting my own artistic identity, one that evolves to meet the unique demands of each medium, is what continually engages me as an artist.
How does art impact our society?
I believe art is essential to our society. Throughout the years, it has been a significant form of expression and communication. It has enabled us to gather and define culture. Art has a great power of influence, capable of evoking emotions and raising awareness. I like to perceive art as a reflection of our society's values, aspirations, and challenges; it is in a constant state of change and evolution, and I think it has a great potential to start important/ necessary conversations and raise reflection, serving as a tool for social change.
What characteristics about your personality show through your art?
The aspect of my personality that shines through my art is my unique perspective on the world's beauty. I find myself consistently captivated by the profound wonders of our reality, those tangible and familiar treasures that surround us. What I try to convey is a depiction of this beauty that not only resonates but also offers viewers a sense of comfort and intrigue.
How do you know when a work is finished?
I think recognizing that a piece is complete is quite an intuitive process for me. To be honest, I often feel like I can make changes or additions endlessly, and the more time I spend with a work, the more I might be tempted to tweak it! However, in general, I consider a work finished when it reaches a point where it communicates its intended message or emotion and achieves a sense of harmony.
What’s your favorite medium to work in? Do you explore others?
I really enjoy working with acrylic painting. And lately, I've been interested in exploring large-scale projects like murals. While my primary focus lies in digital art, which offers a completely distinct creative experience, I think experimenting with various media adds an extra layer of excitement to my artistic journey and often leads to some unexpected surprises.
Voices of Hispanic and Latinx Artists
Hal Gomer Gallery | September 7 2023 - October 17, 2023
Artist Reception: September 21, 6 pm - 8 pm
Gallery Hours:
Monday-Thursday 10am-6pm | Saturday 10am-1pm