ROBYN LESTER
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IN THE STUDIO

Works in Progress, Videos & Sketchbook Meanderings

Variety is the spice of life!

12/5/2022

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One thing you hear tossed around a lot in the creative world is the concept of “finding your artistic voice”. Often this is defined as a consistent style that is unique to you. A visual signature of sorts. It’s also often linked to this idea that you artistic voice is a visual manifestation of your inner truth.

From what I’ve observed, it can take artists a long time before they actually land on a style of working that reflects their voice. A process that involves creating a lot of work that may appear varied or feel disingenuous.

Judging from my own work over the past three years, other artists would probably say that I’m on the journey to find my artistic voice. And perhaps I am.

But there’s also something a bit sad about that phrase.

In it, there’s an insinuation that all the work done along the journey isn’t “truly you”. And as such, it’s less than. And once again, we put the end goal on a pedestal and completely discredit what’s created in the process.

I don’t know... When I look at the paintings above, I see energy. I see variety. I see struggle. I see hope. I see frustration. I see someone searching for something, but they're not sure what.

I definitely don't see a consistent artistic voice. But I do see my voice. And isn't that the point?

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Slow down. Wander, question, grow.

8/12/2022

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My work has shifted significantly over the past few months. Until recently I was on a path of painting representational landscapes. Working from photos (either my own, or my clients'), I was creating pieces that were objectively good, but didn't feel true. It was so hard to explain. I felt a physical resistance to my own work, but had no idea what the solution was. All I knew was that the paintings felt stiff and lifeless.

For over a year I felt a pull to take my art in a different direction, but struggled out of fear that it'd bring me "off course". People were responding positively to what I was painting. I didn't want to sacrifice that just so I could mindlessly wander an unfamiliar, potentially dead-end, path.

But, life tip: always give yourself permission to go on adventures!

In June I finally allowed myself the freedom to explore the unfamiliar. In the process I've found a more expressive way of painting that feels honest to who I am and who I aspire to be. Themes around memory, place and mindfulness have naturally emerged as I continue this work. More importantly, I finally feel connected to the work I'm creating. 
Abstract landscape painting with blue sky and green ground
Robyn Lester, Across the Prairies, 2022
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    Robyn Lester

    Canadian artist | Currently exploring the connection between memory and landscape in a series of watercolour-inspired acrylic landscapes.

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  • Home
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