Interview with Featured Artist Leslie Graff

Posted by Shelah | June 8, 2009 | 39 Comments

One of my favorite parts of coming out with a new issue of Segullah is interviewing our featured artist for the blog. In the past, I’ve gotten a glimpse into the lives of some amazing strangers whose work I’d admired before I got to know the women who created them. This time around, things are a little bit different.

Our featured artist for the Spring/Summer 2009 issue of Segullah, which should be arriving in your mailboxes shortly, is Leslie Graff. Since she co-edits the Segullah blog rtvarandboys and is a regular poster and commenter around these parts, most of our readers already know Leslie. I’ve known Leslie since we were assigned the same dorm room in BYU’s Deseret Towers in the fall of 1993, and we’ve been best friends ever since. So the challenge of interviewing Les is both really fun and a little bit weird, because I already know what she’s going to say; we’ve been talking about art ever since she filled up our entire student apartment (and her minivan) with art supplies and we started skipping the Humanities class we took together for trips to the BYU Museum of Art, where we’d walk through the galleries, eat Caesar Salad, and sing the praises of self-education.

SM: I know that you look at yourself not just as an artist, but as a woman artist. Can you explain how you feel that your womanhood is central to your art?

LG: My art is very relational, systemic, and organic which I consider representative of me as a woman. My pieces are personal, and often inspired by everday exchanges. I chose to pursue my art more intently after experiencing years of loss in my life. For me it was a deliberate, conscious choice to bring creation, and growth out of a difficult, life-altering experience. Many of the valuable experiences in my life as a woman are not quantifiable in clear, concrete, measurable ways. Rather, I trade mostly in the commodities of emotion and connection, I like to explore that visually. I use repeated shapes and symbols to represent the accumulation of small things that give meaning to our lives and composite into a greater whole.

SM: Talk a little bit about the how motherhood affects your art and art affects your mothering.

I find my mothering and art have a very reciprocal and symbiotic relationship. I feel joy from creating art which refreshes me as a mother. In turn my mothering inspires my art. My greatest creative burst, actually came after the birth of my third child. Mothering is preeminent for me; I generally only paint at night when my boys are asleep, because the focus that is required for a piece can be somewhat consuming and distracting. I can’t balance it well with being fully present in my interactions with my little boys. Having a studio in my home, art is a very natural, touchable, everyday thing for my three sons. They are constantly creating alongside me. They don’t have the same respect for my work though, they have been known to commandeer my large paintings for matchbox car ramps and forts. I appreciate how the creative process models for my boys risk-taking, attempts, failures, starting over, exploration, and perseverance.

SM: As an LDS artist, what are your views on LDS art in general, and in your place within the body of LDS artists.

There are many LDS artists, with amazing talent. I am excited by the greater variety of work emerging from LDS artists . Visual art has always seemed less prominent than say music in LDS culture. Traditionally the art has been fairly literal and focused in realism and relatively limited in terms of subject matter. I hope it continues to expand to develop into an even richer, more encompassing body of work. One that makes use of a wide range of styles, artistic traditions, and subjects, and that explores not only people, places, or events but also that communicates the feelings, beliefs, and impressions of faith. So much of faith involves things that are not concrete or tangible which is why I tend to employ alot of symbolism in my work. Art is a tool to help us become more fluent in understanding symbols and finding meaning on a variety of levels. I love how abstraction invites personalization and creates unique meaning for each viewer. Many of my pieces I consider religious, although they are not overtly so, for me the framework of my belief is essential to understanding the purpose or context of the symbols. Like my aspen paintings, which explore the journey of mortality and the play autonomy and agency, or my reaching tree series which are representations of the power and generative influence of women.

SM: Tell us about the studio nights you host in your home.

LG: Sometimes I boast that my little New England ward has over the years had what I’d guess to be the largest percentage of LDS women painting on canvas anywhere in the world. I have introduced many women to painting I love studio nights because I am very passionate about empowering women, helping them discover their own creativity.

Most people stop doing formal “art” when they leave junior high or high school. Studio night is a great opportunity to continue to expand understanding of art and aesthetics. I want to dispel the limiting belief that art has to be beautiful or look just like something to be good art, to help others understand that value and meaning in art can come when it evokes emotion from the viewer or fills a need in the creator. My professional background is in therapeutic play, so I seestudio night is kind of like my version of a quilting bee, filling needs for competency and generativity in women but also serving as a therapeutic forum that allows for a lot of sharing, teaching, and support in all aspects of our lives. We very much retain our context as women and mothers, there has frequently been a baby on the floor or being nursed amid the painting.

I try to help people see themselves as artists. It is amazing how this influences their children as well. I have often heard the children of moms I have held studio with remark, “My mom is an artist, she is the best painter.” My encouragement is always to not be afraid of the risk. There are so many great mediums you can work in and so many styles to explore, most people can find something they can feel successful doing in visual arts. So if you’re near my studio, you might just wind up with a brush in your hand.

Comments

39 Responses to “Interview with Featured Artist Leslie Graff”

Jenny
June 8th, 2009 @ 5:45 am

One of these days I’m going to end up with a brush in my hand. Les, you’re a beautiful, talented and inspiring woman.
wendy
June 8th, 2009 @ 6:48 am

Ditto on what Jenny said. I bought an oil paint kit from Costco a few years ago, thinking I’d try it. I’m hoping that the paints aren’t dry already, because I can feel the urge coming on sometimes. Paintings such as yours inspire me to stop procrastinating already. Wish I lived in your ward!
Laura
June 8th, 2009 @ 6:59 am

I admire my “studio night” masterpiece daily
Leslie your talent amazes me, thank you for your willingness to share it with us!
Laura
June 8th, 2009 @ 7:01 am

oh BTW. Grant was cleaning out his “stuff” on Saturday. He found a brand new set of paints…he brought them to me and said, ” I want to give these to Sis. Graff”
He knows you’d put them to good use
Sage
June 8th, 2009 @ 8:32 am

Wish you lived in my ward too. Where do you live? I haven’t painted in about six years. I always fimd excuses why I don’t have time : (. Thanks for sharing your beautiful work and ideas about art.
Blue
June 8th, 2009 @ 9:00 am

the moment i read the words “studio night” something in my soul jumped. is this what has been missing in my life? all i know is now i need to participate in one. is there any way we could have one in SLC while you’re here, or is that not feasible because of logistics? do i need to pay a visit to you at your home base?

i loved this interview. it helped me think about things differently, and gave me some insights about ways i can further the healing i’m seeking in my own life. thank you both! ♥
Justine
June 8th, 2009 @ 10:15 am

I don’t have the slightest skill for painting, but I would love love love to go to a studio night at your studio. This interview is a nice reminder that we all create, and we can all express our talents and lives in creating a beautiful space around us.

Thank you!
Leslie
June 8th, 2009 @ 10:34 am

jenny- I promise to get a brush in your hand- don’t doubt it!

wendy- get it out and start! do it today!

Laura- we have to get you working again your last two pieces have been masterful- Xo to grant!

Sage- want to move to MA? I hope you’ll find the time to start again.

Blue- we could probably swing a traveling studio night sometime (that is if I can con shelah into turning her gleaming new house into the studio- or else plein air it)I think developing a talent is one of the greatest ways to heal-one of these days i will write more about it. It was such a lightbulb discovery thing for me.

justine – anytime- I am also a great bed and breakfast-
jendoop
June 8th, 2009 @ 10:52 am

I’m jealous of the studio night too! Past wards I have been in have always had a scrapbooking night. In trying to participate I always found myself wishing I were painting instead. As an artist myself I love that you see everyone as an artist. I hate that the art world is so competetive that successful artists feel defensive when they see great new talent.

Many things have taken me away from painting the last few years. You give me hope that I will eventually find a place for painting in my life.

Do you ever feel guilty about spending time and money on painting when the paintings don’t sell? (All of your work probably sells, this is how I feel and wonder if you ever feel the same.)
Leslie
June 8th, 2009 @ 11:07 am

jendoop- you know supplies aren’t that much- in the beginning i justified it that it was cheaper than buying art for my home. Really it’s much cheaper hobby than golf or even things like scrapbooking or going to the movies. The cost per hour is fairly low :>. It was a very freeing thing though to move into the realm of making money – so that i don’t even think about the supply costs anymore- I buy everything in bulk orders (although to really make a solid living this way would be stressful for me) and as for the time- not really that doesn’t bother me. I don’t really consider it wasted. I also just paint over top of things if i don’t like them– the beauty of paint. I figure every painting builds skills for the next- it’s like shooting baskets.
Donna
June 8th, 2009 @ 2:19 pm

Great interview, Shelah! It was interesting to read a litte on the background of Leslie’s start in the painting world. I feel grateful to have attended several studio nites and am amazed that I actually have painted some recognizable matter. Who knew? Through Leslie’s example, I am often encouraged to step out and try something new and creative. I’m learning that in creating, whether it be painting, baking bread, using a glue gun, etc. we can feel more peace, joy and fulfillment in our lives. I never would have expected that I could actually paint anything- it’s been so great to just give it a try. Thanks Les!
Ellen
June 8th, 2009 @ 2:59 pm

Lucky me; I have a Leslie original in my kitchen!
Leslie
June 8th, 2009 @ 4:02 pm

donna- see you have it in you!! all you needed was a good pep talk and a little push! I love you flowers, your lemons,and most of all i love that it’s made you happy!

ellen ;>
Amanda
June 8th, 2009 @ 4:11 pm

Les,

This article leaves me wondering about all the things in your life I have missed the last few years. I miss you. I too have taking up painting but find my creative juices drained by the end of my day when the kiddies are asleep. Thank you for sharing your thougths and your art. Let me know if you do a studio night while in SLC! Do yo remember the cracked egg and the glue bottle in our sculpting class?
Jennie
June 8th, 2009 @ 4:20 pm

One day I’ll pick up a brush. You give me hope Leslie!
Leslie
June 8th, 2009 @ 4:59 pm

Amanda- oh yes- those were the days!!

Jennie- you can do it!

And for those brave enough to pick up a brush or a pencil for a studio night- if you are in SLC the 2nd week in July (likely the 11th)- shelah has volunteered her house for a blog “studio night” meet up– details will follow…for a creative night of fun!
Tamlynn
June 8th, 2009 @ 7:15 pm

That is SO NOT FAIR!!!
Tamlynn
June 8th, 2009 @ 7:17 pm

Ooops- wasn’t done typing. So not fair because I won’t be in UT until the 3rd week of July. I’m going to go pout now.
Leslie
June 8th, 2009 @ 7:21 pm

oh tamlynn- no- change your plans- studio night is worth it!
Lei
June 8th, 2009 @ 8:37 pm

Les is a fascinating, amazing woman! Thanks for all your thoughts on art and LDS persepctive… you inspire me!
Kathryn P.
June 8th, 2009 @ 8:55 pm

Leslie,
Your paintings are so joyous and filled with light! I was wishing, like many others today, that I could be in your ward. What a wonderful way to use your talents to build the sisters in Zion…
Emily M.
June 8th, 2009 @ 9:19 pm

Ditto on the studio night, Leslie! Lucky ward members.

I love, love, love the theme of repetition of tiny moments. I think of it whenever I look at your work.
Sage
June 9th, 2009 @ 12:36 am

Well, Leslie, I just live a few hours away. I am in NY. Sometimes we go to Hanson to visit relatives. Is that close?!

Thanks again for your inspiration. Maybe as my new baby (coming on Wednesday) gets older, I will break out my oils again.
Courtney
June 9th, 2009 @ 5:26 am

Studio night sounds like a lot of fun (and who wouldn’t want to see Shelah’s new house)!
Blue
June 9th, 2009 @ 9:12 am

i’m so there! and thanks for letting me know in time to avoid flying that day. i just blogged about some pictures i have in my mind. maybe a month from now i’ll actually be creating one of them!

you couldn’t have a more excited student. see you on the 11th!!!!!

(i’ll bring yummies.) ♥
Amanda
June 9th, 2009 @ 9:27 am

Oh I’m in! -if I can invite myself?? Excited!! Saving the 11th.
Leslie
June 9th, 2009 @ 2:02 pm

lei, kathryn, and emily- thank you for your compliments!
sage- we’re not too far from NY we’re in central ma- kind of 1/2 way between boston and springfield

Blue- so glad to oblige- see you then
Amanda- fabulous- can’t wait!
Yes we will post more later on the blog- and we will email people directions etc individually who are interested in coming- so shelah’s house is not advertised like a billboard!
andrea
June 9th, 2009 @ 4:08 pm

I am going to do everything I can to make your SLC studio night…after all, I am your first protege, right? (I mean you can’t even deny my watercolor skills). Love you!
Suzanne
June 9th, 2009 @ 4:15 pm

Les, I just loved reading about you and hearing about your wonderful projects and what inspires you.

My creative juices come from Roberts Crafts and I buy the ‘all inclusive’ projects and my grandkids think craft day with me is grand!!!!
You are wonderful
Suzanne
Sue
June 10th, 2009 @ 9:15 am

I wish I had a Leslie original. I would be happy and proud to hang either of the two pictured here in my home.

Seriously, do you have a web site? Do you sell your work in any organized way? I sure do like what I see.

=)
Leslie
June 10th, 2009 @ 1:47 pm

Oh thank you suzanne- all creative projects are stpes in a good direction!

Thank you Sue- i do sell my work you can see them here http://www.yessy.com/lesliegraff (I do commision pieces as well)
or at lesliegraff.com (set up more as a portfolio site)
Holly
June 10th, 2009 @ 3:33 pm

Leslie, I am Holly Fry my mother is Collette Johnson. We have met, it’s just been awhile:) Your mother Sherry sent your page to us so we could see your beautiful art.

I have been wanting to paint for many years, but have felt like I never have the time. Your paintings are SO beautiful, creative and inspiring. You are such a talented girl! Thank you for inpiring me to push myself toward something I love.

Do you sell your paintings? Tell your mother hello for me, I love her:)

Holly Fry
Rose
June 10th, 2009 @ 9:02 pm

I love how Leslie talks about “empowering women by getting them to discover their own creativity!” I am there with you! Mothers need encouragement & love and fellowship of the sisters, especially in the most taxing stages of child rearing, and there is nothing quite like mixing it up with other artists! We buoy & feed off eachother. Thank you, Leslie, for feeding so many!
Leslie
June 11th, 2009 @ 6:59 pm

holly- thank you so much- I hope you will give it a try. I really recommend museum based adult lessons for any of you looking to try it out.

Rose- Thank you for your example and wisdom and an LDS woman/mother/artist- I admire you and your work so much!
az
June 12th, 2009 @ 12:08 am

beautiful!
Clarice
June 14th, 2009 @ 6:02 am

Hi Leslie,

I was just about to send an email off to you on the link with your portfolio, when I read the comments here, and am so excited that you are coming to SLC! I’m definitely marking the 11th on my calendar. Your art work is beautiful, and everything I’ve always wanted to try in my life, but didn’t know where to start. (Also, never thought I was creative enough). Add me to that email list for sure! My email is islandgirlinutah at gmail dot com Thanks!
Cassandra
June 15th, 2009 @ 11:07 am

I love hearing what inspires artists to create what they do. I also love that you are an artist as well as a mother. You are truly inspiring. I live in Salt Lake. Is there a chance I could check out your studio night? My palms kind of sweat when I think about painting, but that’s because I have no idea how to do it, and life is too short to be afraid.
Leslie
June 15th, 2009 @ 12:41 pm

clarice and cassandra -will look forward to seeing you at studio night! we will email you directions- we’ll post a more formal announcement (times, what to bring) in the next week or so.
Blog Segullah : You’re Invited: Segullah Studio Night
July 21st, 2009 @ 7:12 pm

[...] Come meet, mingle, chat, and create with Segullah friends. Leslie Graff will be there to help you try your hand at [...]