Artist profile
Heidi
Lai
Heidi's art encourages us to pause, take stock of our surroundings, and appreciate the significance of the present moment.
Heidi, a self-taught oil painting artist from Sydney, Australia, draws inspiration from her upbringing in Hong Kong, a bustling city known for its overpopulation, and sensory overload.
Observing the dynamic interactions between people and their surroundings, Heidi skilfully captures fleeting moments and uncovers the essence of life through her paintings. With vibrant colours and distinct brushstrokes, she infuses her creations with movement and ambiguity, mirroring the ephemeral nature of memories.
Her artwork, rooted in everyday life, resonates deeply with viewers, evoking emotions and triggering their own personal recollections.
Career Highlights
- Had her debut solo exhibition in Melbourne in 2023, and will have her second solo show in Newcastle in 2024
- Finalist in ACB Selects of National Emerging Art Prize 2023
- The winner of People's Choice Award in Aspire Gallery in 2023
What medium do you work with, and why have you chosen them?
I love using oil paint. Its slow drying time and smooth blending qualities give me more space and time to enjoy each part of the scene.
How does your artwork get from initial concept to exhibition stage?
I love taking tons of snapshots and then heading home to sift through them all. It's such a fun process for me to see which ones really strike a chord and inspire me to start painting. I'm not painting with the intention of showcasing my work; rather, I find a special connection between the images that becomes my exhibition theme.
Can you tell us a little more about your creative working environment/studio?
My cozy little home studio is super chill and uncomplicated. It's got just an easel and a table brimming with art supplies, all within arm's reach. I keep all my images and references stored on my iPad, using Procreate to draw sketches and jot down notes effortlessly.
