Q AND ART: Lisa Haskell
Please note: This article is published as an archive copy from Philadelphia City Paper. My City Paper is not affiliated with Philadelphia City Paper. Philadelphia City Paper was an alternative weekly newspaper in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The last edition was published on October 8, 2015.
Welcome to Q and Art, where we ask local artists the same set of questions then they give us the name of the next artist to interview.
1) Tell us a little about your background.
When I was younger, I wasn't a kid that was always drawing or carrying around a sketchbook, but I was in awe of people who could draw — including my dad. It wasn't until I was in high school that a true appreciation for art emerged. I took art classes with a teacher that I admired, and was eager to pursue a creative field for college. I took a traditional route by entering Philadelphia College of Textiles and Science (now Philadelphia University) right after I graduated high school, with a major in textile design. Unfortunately, after two years of studies I was undecided on what I wanted to do, so I took a break — which turned into a very long break.
I did go back to take some Continuing Education classes, but it wasn't until my third daughter was entering nursery school that I officially went back to school. I chose Moore College of Art & Design after regularly dropping my older daughters off there for Young Arts Workshop classes. I was envious of the fact that they were creating and being surrounded by art. By this time, I was in my late 30s and finally had the confidence to study Fine Art. It took me a full four years to complete my studies, but it was so worth it! I grew so much as an artist, and even graduated as Valedictorian of my class.
2) What are you currently working on?
For a few years after I left Moore, I was working from a space in my home as a painter, however, the pull of family life as a wife and mother of three tended to get in the way. I have been in a studio at 1241 Carpenter for almost a year now, and it's the best thing that could have happened for my work. I have gotten into the routine of a regular studio practice, and I'm making more work than I have in a long time.
My most recent work focuses on an intense desire to travel to another place. I am a dreamer fascinated with the idea of visiting other lands. My paintings are imagined abstract worlds that I can manipulate by using what I am inspired by in nature, as well as urban environments. I am currently working on paintings to build a body of work to photograph in order to get a website up and running, as well as work that is worthy of submitting to shows. I am also researching and looking into ways to promote my work — trying to decide on whether that will be creating an Etsy shop or a Facebook page or starting a blog in addition to a website. Further down the road, I am most interested in applying for grants and residencies. So, needless to say, I will be painting a lot!
3) What's your favorite thing to eat locally?
It is really tough to narrow this down! I do not regularly frequent any particular places, and I admittedly do not get the opportunity to eat out much (remember those three kids). I do however enjoy trying new places, and I always have a list of restaurants to check out. With that said, some things that have stood out: I had a perfect burger at Village Whiskey, yummy cheese collections at Talula's Garden, Weckerly's Ice Cream is so so good, and I can always count on the fish tacos at Honey's Sit 'n Eat. I have also been known to get cravings for the crab cakes at Osaka in Chestnut Hill.
4) What's your favorite thing to do in this area?
I am fortunate enough to live directly across the street from the Wissahickon section of Fairmount Park, so I try to remind myself to take advantage of the woods as much as possible. I love the energy of being in the city, but I also need quiet to reflect. Going for long walks or riding my bike along Forbidden Drive takes me away from the hectic pace for a bit. My work is also highly inspired by what I see in nature, so the woods help to inform where things can go.
5) Give us your insider tip to the city.
Philly is filled with so much incredible art, make an effort to see some. Even though it's fun, First Fridays and reception nights are often jam packed. Don't forget that you can visit galleries during the week as well. I get more out of the experience when I am really able to linger and get up close to the work.
6) And finally, pick the next artist for us to interview.
Lisa Hurwitz blows me away with her creativity and imagination. She makes beautiful paintings, started from technically skilled drawings, that are layered with pattern and richness.
Where to find Lisa Haskell
If interested in seeing available work or seeking commissions, Lisa can be contacted at lisahaskellfineart@yahoo.com. To see what Lisa is up to in general and to view the progress of her art, follow her on Instagram @lisambhaskell.
