Lawrence Gipe – Art and Cake

Lawrence Gipe
Los Angeles, CA
Age 62

What keeps you excited in the studio?
There is excitement but it’s more like compulsion. There’s always a great image or a compelling theme to take on.

Looking back at your trajectory as an artist, how would you say your work has developed?
At first I was mainly interested in painting exclusively, but as time has passed, I’ve opened up my practice to include art writing, curating, installation, and teaching.

What role do you think the artist has in today’s society?
We are the cultural canaries in the coalmines. When we get knocked off the perch, individual liberty follows.

What’s the most important advice you could give to an aspiring artist?
In the world in general, my father told me: “Lar, you never get anything unless you ask”. True in art as well. Don’t be afraid to ask the dealer for an advance. Ask the curator over, they can only say no.

Does age matter in art? Why or why not?
Yes, it matters because old people are extremely wise and we’ve seen everything in the art world …younger artists should ask us more frequently for advice! In my own practice, I have less time to paint than ever, so I cut the BS and get to work. Having been at this for almost 40 years, I have a good idea where I’m going each day.

What can we look forward to from you next?
I’m completing a 6×8-ft painting of Gardi Sugdub, an island in the Panamaian Archipelago that is disappearing due to climate change. It’s beautiful and sad, abstract yet literal.

Is there anything else you would like to share about being an artist later in life?
One of the happiest things about being an older artist is the community you’ve accrued over the decades. I feel incredibly lucky to have that support.

http://www.lawrencegipe.com
@lawrencegipe