My interview with Lorie taught me how early experiences, like having artwork displayed in school and constantly drawing in books as a child, can shape one's confidence and interest in art. I also learned how art can strengthen personal identity and create a community of creative people, even if one did not originally plan to pursue art as a career.
When did you know that you wanted to pursue a career in art? And why?
I think when I was in the third grade, I did an art project in school and mine was chosen to be put in the showcase in the school entrance. I was so proud that from then on, I wanted to be an artist. Art was always something I did. I used to draw in all of my Little Golden Children’s Books on a blank page at the beginning of the book. I drew princesses wearing high heels inside of their castles My imagination was always working.
Following off that, how did you know what part of the art world you would pursue?
I didn’t really think about a career at first. In the late sixties, my goal was to go to college, get married and have kids. In 1971, we moved to Cincinnati where I attended The Cincinnati Art Academy for one year before my son Josh was born. It was a great experience. When Josh was one year old, we moved back to Boston and 3 years later, Molli was born. I was a full time mom. I waited until Molli started elementary school, and then enrolled in the School Of the Museum Of Fine Arts Boston(SMFA) diploma program where I took classes in a variety of media. I didn’t have a goal in mind but over time, I fell in love with making large painted collages.
Who or what had the most significant influence on you along the way?
As a child, one of my close friend’s mother was a weaver. Her mom had a studio in her home where she kept her large loom and all the beautiful colored yarns. Her mom was very artsy. She was also a wonderful cook and I loved eating at my friend’s house and watching her mom snip fresh herbs from her garden to enhance the beauty and flavor of the meals she cooked for us. She was a role model, not just because she made wonderful art, but because she lived an artistic life. My art teachers in high school and the Museum School also were role models who encouraged and pushed my creativity.
It took time to figure out what kind of art I wanted to do. Initially, my art wasn’t coming from me, but from imitating other artists whom I liked. That all changed at the Museum School, when I began using personal subject matter, like family photos, drawings of my bureau, my closet, and my children’s toys to create my collage paintings.
What has been the biggest benefit to you of pursuing a career in art or having art as an active part of your life?
It gave me an identity. Even though I had no career ambitions since my mother didn’t work outside our home, I felt a need to have an identity of my own, beyond being a housewife or mother. Once I began showing at Gallery NAGA, it solidified my professional identity as an artist. It opened up a community of artists, dealers, and collectors to me that continue to give me a sense of belonging that has greatly enriched my life.
What roles do you think schools should play in fostering art education and appreciation?
It is a really important role. Some kids just don’t have access to art without school programs. Schools need to provide exposure to the arts and encourage creative self expression.
How concerned are you about the impact from cuts in funding to the arts, particularly in schools?
I’m very concerned. Creative programs need support. When my kids were in elementary school, we created The Newton Schools Foundation, which raised money from the community to fund programs that the schools couldn’t afford. Funding for the arts is essential to promote creative self-expression. The arts also enliven community spirit and build self confidence in young artists!
