We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Lori Hill. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Lori below.

Lori, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. What’s been the most meaningful project you’ve worked on?

I am currently working on a new series of paintings that originated from my decision to organize the numerous old photographs which have accumulated over the years. As I sorted through these images, certain photos evoked strong memories and emotions. This led me to work with these responses and develop a series titled “Family Matters,” which explores the psychological impact of relationships, experiences, and memories within the family unit. The figures in the paintings are derived from the original photographs, but the compositional elements and settings are allegorical and imagined.

One of the initial paintings in this series is entitled “Misplaced Zygote,” which addresses feelings of being different and isolated from others in the family, particularly in relation to religion. Another photograph depicts my grandmother caring for my young son. Her advanced age and fatigue made it evident that keeping up with the toddler was challenging. This inspired the painting “Passages,” which portrays her opening the door to a portal beyond. “Perceptions of Reality” investigates how two individuals can be in the same place at the same time, and have differing interpretations of the same experience. “Lunch With the Harskamps” examines varying personalities within an individual. I used a photograph of myself drinking tea juxtaposed with a painting behind the table developed from a collage of anxious characters. “Directionally Challenged” reflects on finding one’s path despite misleading and erroneous information, enhanced by surreal space and weathervanes pointing in different directions.

To date, I have completed six paintings in this series, and I anticipate the development of further works and the direction this creative exploration will take.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

I grew up in a small mountain town in western North Carolina. Despite the absence of visual art classes in my elementary or high school curriculum, I maintained a keen interest in drawing and creating from an early age. I produced small books of my drawings, designed clothing and spaces for imaginary clients, crafted posters for school events, and created caricatures of teachers.

With limited exposure to the arts, I initially pursued a career in health science and did not intend to study art until I enrolled in my first art foundations class in college. This experience was transformative, as it resonated with me deeply, led to academic success, and ultimately guided me toward a fulfilling path in art.

Although I was doubtful about making a living as a studio artist, I opted for a career in art education and subsequently taught at the high school I had previously attended. There, I established an Advanced Placement Art Program and developed a photography curriculum while continuing to refine my skills as an artist. Balancing family responsibilities, including raising four children, I dedicated time starting at 4:30 AM to my personal artwork, which provided grounding amidst my busy life.
I actively engaged with the art community by joining galleries and participating in juried shows. Concurrently, I pursued a graduate degree in art education. Over a teaching career spanning thirty-five years, including a stint at our local university, I found great reward in witnessing the impact of art on my students, which also enhanced my artistic knowledge.

Now retired, working in my studio is a priority, allowing me the luxury to devote several hours daily to creating art. My current body of work consists of large oil paintings which I exhibit in various venues. I tend to work in series but the themes often overlap.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

Being an artist is rewarding for several reasons. The artistic process offers focus and presence, similar to meditation. This process also encourages growth and experimentation and allows me to express my thoughts and reactions to things real and imagined in a tangible form. This connection with oneself can also extend to a connection with others. Engaging with other artists and art enthusiasts fosters community and enjoyment. Working as an art teacher has also been highly rewarding. I experienced firsthand the transformative power of art which often provided students with a compelling reason to attend school. I have witnessed the ability of art to communicate across socio-cultural boundaries. Many students have reached out after graduating to let me know that art has continued to be an important part of their lives.

Is there mission driving your creative journey?

My motivation stems from a desire to continuously develop and create as an artist. I enjoy experimenting, learning new techniques, and observing the work of other artists. The art-making process is integral to my identity and something I am driven to do. I am also motivated by the fact that art is essential. As a teacher, I have seen numerous times the positive effects that art can have not only on students, but adults as well. I believe art is vital for individual well-being, offering numerous benefits that extend beyond aesthetics. It provides a platform for self-expression, emotional exploration, and cultural preservation, while also fostering creativity, empathy, and critical thinking skills.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://lorihill-art.com
• Instagram: @lorihillart

Image Credits

Photography by Lori Hill