Larry Wolf is a successful lawyer who decided to pick up a paintbrush and start painting twenty years ago. He has exhibited his work all over Los Angeles and has created a new career for himself, which is now flourishing. I sat down with him to find out more about this talented painter. Wolf will be featured in a solo exhibition titled “BLAST” on Sunday, September 15, 2019 at the Upper West. See more info at the end of interview.
Know thee Neighor 48” x 72” Acrylic on untreated canvas
Q:
Was there someone in your life (like a teacher/or relative) who
inspired you to be an artist?
A: My emergence into art was paved by my spiritual teacher who
emphasized creativity and the necessity of getting out of the way of one’s own
head. I soon discovered that, even though I couldn’t sing or dance, I was
intrigued by the use of color and texture. Through meditation and keen
observation, my creativity has blossomed. Painting has become an outlet that
has taken me on a journey that I share with the viewer through these works that
are as intriguing to the mind as they are a delight to the eye.
Q: Did you often go to museums as a child/teenager?
A: I can still remember the airplane museum we visited in the third grade. There was something about being surrounded by the exhibits that left me in a state of wonder. I strove to duplicate that feeling
Q: Can you tell me a bit about your process?
A: I’m not sure where I first came upon the idea of using untreated Canvas or silkscreens. Both seemed to have emerged without A definite commitment. On untreated canvas I have the opportunity and option of painting either from the front or the back of the canvas. Painting on the back of untreated Canvas produces a result that is not similar to any other process. Similarly silk screens, which require paint to be pushed through the back, produces textures and combinations of color not easily obtained through other technics
Q: Do you work in different series?
A: Series do not seem to be in my thing.
Q: Do you always start a painting the same way? Or is it different each time?
A: I never start a painting in the same way twice. Because I rely on untreated canvases for my creations the flow and intensity is always varied. The habit of not starting a painting the same way twice is the magical element that intrigues and excites my painting.
Q: Do you work in different media…such as sculpture, or photography?
A: The use of acrylic paint on either untreated canvas or silkscreen are the only mediums that I use. Although I explored the use of clay and ceramics I have not yet caught that bug. Fortunately, I am able to use various materials to add to my pieces. This use of mixed media satisfies my desire to expand my work beyond the flat surfac
Gust 48” x 72” Acrylic on untreated canvas
Q: What is your preferred choice of paint…acrylic, oil, or watercolor?
A: I use acrylic paint almost exclusively because it gives me the ability to build surfaces on my pieces Without waiting forever for the paint to dry I can add almost anything that can be attached to the canvas. This provides me with endless opportunities and The use of endless materials.
Attend a free opening reception for “BLAST” on Sunday, September 15, 2019 at the Upper West, 3321 Pico Boulevard, Santa Monica 90404, 310 586-1111. https://theupperwest.com/ https://www.abrushwiththelaw.com