ARTS
ART AND SOUL
Artists are in abundance in these parts. No surprise really when you look at the landscape around Exeter. Recent months have seen a burst of creativity, with mesmerising pieces now showing in exhibitions locally. We take a little look... By Harriet Noble
G
uilty pleasure admission: fawning over local art/artists on Instagram. There is something very soothing about seeing a picture of an artist in their studio, paintbrush in hand, creating marvellous, colourful visions with their genius brushstrokes. Often in these pics, as well as some pretty compelling pieces of art, there’s a cup of tea in the background and a dog; quite frankly it’s on a par with ake for inducing much-needed feelings of calm. And these artists have been busy, either exhibiting in local galleries, opening up their own homes as private studios (rules permitting) or being part of online exhibitions. If you’re passionate about art – or perhaps it’s something you want to del e into properly or the rst time you couldn’t do better than by supporting a local artist by popping down to one of the local exhibitions. Here’s a taster to whet your appetite…
Liese Webley
Tell us a bit about your art…
I create semi-abstract colourful original paintings. What’s your artistic background…
I have always loved art, and as far back as I remember I wanted to be an artist. I came to Exeter over 20 years ago to study Fine art painting and loved it here so much I stayed!
Any highlights along the way?
I see my career as a journey that has had many highlights along the way, be that my rst e hibition, a sale in a gallery, building a studio, or being formally recognised. For example, being selected for an Emerging Artist Bursary at last year’s Devon Open Studios event. Perhaps most rewarding is being able to bring my work to more people, and the conversations this generates. What have you got coming up?
I have my studio in Exeter which is open all year by appointment. I also show my work in a few Devon galleries, Lantic in Tiverton and Words and Pictures Gallery in Teignmouth. Luckily, these are also two of my favourite spots to view art in Devon. What are the inspirations for your pieces?
My paintings are mostly inspired by living in the South West peninsula and especially the amazing seascapes and landscapes. I love colour and nature and aim to produce work that gives the audience a feeling a joy and immerse them in a world of colour. Any advice to aspiring artists?
Never give up, always stay true to your own vision and, most importantly, keep creating. For more: www.liesewebley.com
12 I EXETER LIVING I www.mediaclash.co.uk
