monikablichar

A Man of Many Talents-Yves Decary

About:

Yves Decary is not your typical salon owner. Owner of L’atelier Hair Boutique & Gallery in the Yaletown district in Vancouver, BC, this man has many talents. L’Atelier is a full service studio and gallery where local artists are able to show and sell original art work in a welcoming, edgy and vibrant environment. Clients are able to come in, be pampered by a master stylist team, but also engage with Vancouver’s artistic merit, which is evidently bustling as seen from the variety of work found at the salon. Yves not only styles, but also enjoys painting which has led to multiple live painting performances, numerous sales and an upcoming show at Roam Gallery.

Yves Decary-Interview by Alyssa Laube

How is L’Atelier Hair different from other salons?

At l’Atelier, we consider hair to be an art we are creating with scissors, paint brushes, and color. A new look for client, it is why we are different.

How were you introduced to hair styling and cosmetics?
I have always been interested in and curious about fashion because fashion is an art statement. It’s why I decided to become a hairstylist when I was 18 years old.
Why do you think it’s important that you sell local art at L’Atelier?

Our mirrors are framed like a painting and so, our client is our blank canvas. It also makes us proud to support local artists and artisans in our gallery.

When/how did you transition from selling art to creating it?

I started to paint 8 years ago and learned to express my emotion and state of mind on canvas.

To you, what is the meaning of art?

I think, if you paint with your soul, that is the true meaning of art.

As a man who is involved in both art and hair styling, where does your true passion lie?

I love edgy, raw, and sexy emotion. It is what defines me as an artist.

What do you consider your specialty?

I love to analyze people and emotion that is under the surface.

With so many unique designs and ideas, where do you gather inspiration?

My inspiration always come from my experience in life and the human beings that crossed my path.

How has your culture influenced you as an artist?

Fashion has always been a big influence on my journey of creating art.

You’ve also had a salon in Montreal, but moved to Vancouver. How would you describe that process, in a word?

Circus, because most of the time, life is like a circus!

How have you developed as an artist over the years?

Around 3 years ago, I started to mainly paint with my 3 favorite colors: black, red, and white.

What are you looking forward to most at this year’s Expo?

This year, I am looking forward to being part of the Expo again. I love the team. I’m looking forward to sharing my emotion with Vancouver, as well as the artist crowd and sharing the true meaning of art with the audience.

For more information about L’Atelier or Yves, please visit: https://www.facebook.com/groups/432888750122625/

BODY PAINT: THE FACEBOOK RESTRAINT-An Interview with Matt Huntley

Matt Huntley is a body painter living, creating and working in Portland, Oregon. His Facebook Fan Page was recently removed due to “nude” photos of his models on his page. Though all models are covered in artistically executed paint and craftsmanship, censorship remains a key issue for body painters like Matt who are trying to push the norms of artistic expression.

Interview with Matt Huntley

by Aly Laube

About: Matt Huntley is an experienced body painter who works primarily with fantastical, horror, and special FX painting.

To see some of Matt’s work, go to:

http://www.modelmayhem.com/mhuntley

Body painting has been a part of the Expo for a while now. Is this your first time taking part in the event and if so, what are you looking forward to?
2013 was my first time attending the event. I met some wonderful people, and the experience was a good one. I didn’t know what to expect, but had a blast, and placed 2nd, so I’m coming back for a second time.

How did you get started in body painting?
I’ve always been an artist, and got in to special effects. After many years doing SFX and theatrical makeup, I got tired of the same work over and over. How many zombies does the world actually need? So I started doing body painting, and love every minute of it.

How did you receive your training?
I’m mostly self taught. I was an art major when I first went to college, but quickly changed career paths. I did intern in the Special Effects field for a few months, and received a decent foundation, but over all I just research various forms of art, talk with painters, sculptors, and makeup artists. I practice all the time with new products, various paint brushes, and airbrushes.

What is the best thing about working in body painting?
I like turning the human canvas into a piece of art. The human form is already such an amazing art piece, so to use it to create is really the best part of body painting. Also, I do like that it’s temporary (this means I don’t have stacks of canvases piled up in my studio.)

The art that you do is very creative. How do you experiment with your work?
I’m always testing new techniques and designs. I test new brushes and new products. I test to see which products work best with each other and how various paints lay on top of each other. I also check my designs against what has already been done, and if I’ve duplicated someone else’s work, I try to change my design when I can. When working with photographers or models, I take their input on what they want the design to look like, and I try to think of a way to get that look as well. I’m always pushing myself to grow as an artist in all aspects of my art.

What inspires you?
Everything. People, shapes, nature, other artists. I get inspired to create different things every day. Sometimes this becomes overwhelming, so I keep a book that I jot down my ideas in.

How have you evolved as an artist over time?
My work has become cleaner, bolder, and more detailed. My use of time has improved, and I’ve become more confident with my designs.

Did you always want to go into body painting?
Actually, I wanted to be an art teacher. After years of exploring all forms of art, I happened into body painting and fell in love with it.

A lot of the work you do is very fantastical. Is it your own ideas or others that inspire you in this area? (i.e.: movies, books, art)
Most of the work I do are my ideas. I do also collaborate with models, and photographers on a basic concept, and they give me artistic freedom. Some of my work might also be an interpretation of some other art work. I have painted a person and a horse, based on work from artist “Olivia De Berardinis”, and of course as a huge Star Wars fan, I have also done a few pieces that follow that genre.

Many different models are used for your artwork. How do you think the model is important to the piece as a whole? This is a tough question. I have designs that are designed around very specific models, and then I have some designs that are designed around body shapes. (tall, short, petite, curvy, etc). That being said, when I’m designing a new painting I will ask the model what his/her favourite colours are, I look at skin tone, eye colour, hair colour, height, length of torso, legs, etc. the shape of the model is important to the design, and the design is important to the model. If you paint a model with a design she loves, she will make that design hers and work it. That being said, some designs are meant for a single shot, straight on, and the model becomes less important. For instance, if I’m hiding a model in a mural, or against a back ground (camouflaging them), for this type of painting the most important part is the placement of the model and lining up the painting.

How is body painting different than other forms of art?
Bodypainting is temporary. First and foremost. Also, what might take an artist painting on canvas 2 or 3 days (or weeks) a body painter must do in a few hours. Our canvas is alive, they move, they stretch. The movement of a foot can change the lines you’ve painted on a cheek… so taking all of that into consideration is very important.

You’ve painted on both men and women. What do you consider the important differences? How about similarities?
Differences? Body hair. When a man is going to be painted, they will shave or wax their entire body before. Rarely will a female model shave or wax her entire body, and then they will make a comment about body hair. Every model, “every single person”, has body hair. It’s just biology. Most of it is light and small and can’t be seen… but you hit that with some paint, and from up close this can be seen. Nudity. Most female models have no problem with being naked for a painting, whereas only a few male models are comfortable enough to get fully nude. Body shape. Simply put, women have more curves, breasts, hips, legs, they are curvier and softer. Similarities? The initial reaction to the paint. Be it brush, sponge or airbrush, their reactions are the same. Most have the same questions about how one gets into bodypainting, as well as how to clean up, so I would say the differences are mostly physical and the similarities are mental.

How did your home life/childhood impact your decision to become an artist?
I’ve just always been an artist. I can’t remember not being an artist. I’ve always drawn and been pulled to various art. My art drove my imagination and my imagination drove my art. Some people are inspired by music, or theatre, or sports, and I was inspired by colour, shape, lines, and creating.

What do you hope to explore as an artist in the future? I’m planning my first trip to the “World Bodypainting Festival” in Austria, June/July 2014. I am hoping to compete, but at the very least paint. I’m hoping to get to work at conventions, as well as do more “Larger” production paintings involving multiple photographers, costumers, and hair stylists.

Read Matt’s interview with the Oregon Times for details about his recent run in with Facebook:

“Portland body-painting artist fights Facebook over nude photos”

http://www.oregonlive.com/entertainment/index.ssf/2014/01/portland_body-painting_artist.html

Adelle Airey shows for the first time at Art World Expo 2014

Interview With…

Adelle Airey

by Alyssa Laube

About: Adelle Airey describes herself as a “self-taught artist, typically creating acrylic paintings of single flower blooms or plant life covering the entire canvas.” To learn more about Adelle, go to http://www.facebook.com/AdelleAireyArtworks

Is this your first time at the Art World Expo? What are you looking forward to?

Yes. I am looking forward to having my work on public display for the first time.

How did you get started in art?

I have always loved to draw and create things. My grandmother liked to paint and she encouraged me to paint even if it was just as a hobby. I was recognized in my senior years of high school, as Seaquam Secondary’s “Outstanding Senior Art Student” and commissioned to design and paint a hallway mural. My pencil & ink drawings and water colour paintings were proudly hung around my parent’s house. Many of my early pieces were given as gifts to special friends.

How were you influenced as an artist by your heritage or home town?

Our family lived on a small non-working farm in Delta in the70s. Growing up surrounded by colourful things in nature and interesting personalities of animals, has definitely influenced my art.

Who was your main inspiration growing up and how has it changed from then?

Artists like Patrick Nagel and Ty Wilson have probably made the biggest impression on me as an artist. I admire their simplicity of style and use of contrasts and colour.

Many of your paintings are of flowers. Is there any specific reason for this?

I still have the first photo I took with my parent’s camera. I was 9 years old and it was of a rose in our garden. I appreciate the wide variety in plants and flowers, and they allow for artistic expression.

What do you consider your “big break”?

Art World Expo 2014 !

How have you developed as an artist, both professionally and personally?

I realize I cannot be afraid to experiment. Researching techniques and ways to improve as a painter may not always lead to a “good” piece, but that is ok. Personally, I have “developed” in facing my fears and gaining confidence in myself as an artist.

How did you receive your training?

I am a self-taught artist with no formal training.

You also create sculptures. How did that start?

I started a craft project over the winter of ‘93. My first Paper Mache sculptures were a decorative bowl and a prickly pear cactus. After showing a co-worker what I had made, she asked if she could commission a piece for her home. The sale of that piece quickly lead to another 5 commissioned pieces.

Have you ever gotten “Artist’s Block” and if so, how did you deal with it?

I didn’t do any art for a long time. Don’t know if that was a “block” or just letting life get in the way of something I really needed to do. I find setting a goal or deadline for a piece helps motivate me. I try to work on my art only when I’m in the mood”.

What is your favorite (and least favorite) thing about being an artist?

Fav: I get a lot of satisfaction when I am finished a piece and it turns out the way I envisioned. Least fav: criticism that is not constructive.

Did you always want to be an artist? If not, what did you want to be and when/why did you change your mind?

Yes. I just didn’t really know what kind. I thought about being a graphic artist; makeup artist; or interior designer.

Interview with Artist Elaine Kao-Power Ranger at Heart

Founder of Art World Expo, Monika Blichar goes into interview mode with AWE 2014 Exhibitors to search for the meaning of art, the stories within each artist, and the inspirations behind creativity to be found at Art World Expo 2014 in Vancouver, BC. Presenting Elaine Kao, Dino & Panda Inc.

Elaine Kao~Power Ranger at Heart

As a returning artist from Victoria, BC, Elaine has demonstrated growth and artistic transformation since participating for the first time in 2012. Her art and style is not only eye catching, light and fun, but the message that she holds behind the creativity she pours out into doodles, canvas and merchandise is by far the best part of why it is so important to support the arts in our regions as well as globally. Quoting from her fan page which now has over 54,000 fans on Facebook, her motto is “Art work dedicated to making you smile”. Simply perfect.

1) When did you start making art?

My parents say I used to draw snowmen when I was maybe 3 or 4 years old (holding the crayons with a fist). My first big inspiration for wanting to be an artist was after watching Sailor Moon (a Japanese animation) when I was in grade 1. After that I spent most of my time drawing the characters and became really interested in the Japanese anime style of art. I always enjoyed art class throughout grade school. In grade 12, my art teacher let me do my own thing in the back of the room because he knew I could do the exercises he was making everyone else do. That was the first time I painted on canvas with acrylics. Then, against the will of my parents, I applied and got accepted into the Visual Arts program at the University of Victoria.

2) How do you feel about the art scene in our province?

I don’t know about the rest of the province, but I always find that Vancouver Island, and Vancouver have lots of exciting things going on. The art scene is definitely growing every day as young artists are being given more and more opportunities to show and share their work and love of art. I especially love events that bring the community together. One of my favorite events is the annual Art Gallery Paint-In (Victoria, BC.)

3) Describe your goals for your art practice.

My goals in art and everything is to become better and better, and perhaps along the way discover new skills and talents. Recently I’ve been really interested in the 3D painting of Riusuke Fukahori and Keng Lye. I’ve been busy with school so I haven’t had a chance to experiment with resin and painting 3D yet, but one day! On my Dino & Panda fanpage my tagline is “Artwork dedicated to making you smile.” I’d say that’s my biggest goal and motivation when I’m making art. Of course, I’m only human, and I have some sad days which gets translated into my artwork, but I think my fans can connect with those moments too, because I believe I’m not the only one dealing with the curve balls life throws.

4) How has Social Media helped your art career? (specifically your 54,000+ fans on Facebook)

At first, I was just using social media to share my artwork and random doodles with my friends but it quickly grew into an awesome way to spread my work even farther…all the way around the world, in fact! I think it’s the greatest motivation to have people from all over the world connecting with my artwork and cheering me on even when I’m down  I know everyone says this, but I have the best fans ever! Fans sometimes send me messages about commissions or drawing requests which I’m happy to work on. Other fans message me just to tell me their story about how one of my drawings may have held special meaning for them and made them feel better after a bad day. Without social media it wouldn’t be possible to connect with so many people.

5) Do you have any special talents or interesting goals you would like readers to know about you?

I’ve been playing the piano since I was 6, and the ukulele since grade 6. I actually teach piano and ukulele! I’m also practicing guitar on my own. I love to sing and I have a bunch of cover songs on Youtube in a few different languages. Other than music, I am a language nerd and there are 7 languages I want to become fluent in (Mandarin, Korean, Japanese, Italian, Spanish, French, and Greek.) I also speak Cantonese 

6) If you could do anything you wanted, what would it be?

I would be a Power Ranger. Other than that I’m pretty much doing what I want right now, working hard on becoming an awesome teacher!

7) Who inspires you to make art?

Everyone, everything, everywhere and anywhere. From real people to fictional characters, everyone has a story to share and there’s bound to be something interesting!

8) Where can readers purchase your art?

I haven’t had time to look into establishing an online store, and I also don’t have much merchandise yet, but if anyone is interested they can just send me an email, or message on the fanpage. Everyone is welcome to visit me at the Art World Expo, of course! Become a fan of my Dino & Panda and I’ll post updates whenever I will be appearing in art shows!

9) Why do you feel art is important to the individual and to society?

I think art is important to the individual and the society because it’s a way to express opinions, and feelings which may be hard to put into words. Personally, art has been a very important aspect of my life because I’m inherently introverted and I used to be the shyest person you could ever meet. Without art and music as outlets I might as well have been invisible, letting everything, good and bad, build up inside until I explode and disappear. It’s important to understand that you are a valuable person within a society and your story is worth sharing. No one is ever really alone, after all! Besides, creating art is, in most cases, the least destructive thing a person can do when dealing with anger, frustration, and all those negative emotions. Even if a person claims to be the most artistically challenged person in the world, they can still appreciate and connect with the visual stimuli they encounter in their surroundings.

10) Lastly, what do you like about being in the Art World Expo showcase?

I love being a part of the Art World Expo because I get to see many different styles and disciplines of art from many artists. It’s both inspiring and encouraging. Because I’ve been in the Art World Expo for a few years now, it’s exciting to see every aspect of the show improving each year.

To learn more about Elaine and Dino & Panda Inc., visit her fan page on Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/Dino.Panda.Inc