Uncensored Artist: Lindsay Larremore

After earning a degree in interior design from Oklahoma State University in 2006 and traveling abroad, Tulsa native Lindsay Larremore realized that she couldn’t ignore her true passion: oil painting. So she returned to OSU to work on a bachelor’s degree in studio art, which she is scheduled to complete in the spring of 2011.
When not busy with school, she works at Dog Dish, a specialty boutique in Tulsa selling upper end food, clothes, toys and home accessories for canines. But most of her time is spent learning about and creating art. “This time in school is truly a gift,” she says. “I have always known that art is my thing.”

Q. Describe your art.
A. My art is about security and surveillance. I am currently investigating the concept of always being watched. Through a series of paintings on round shaped wood, I depict myself living alone in my apartment doing everyday tasks. The peephole or camera lens shapes of my paintings are metaphorical for an all-seeing eye. I want the viewer to question whether they should be looking in on this individual.

Q. Why did you choose to pursue this theme?
A. As far as the meaning of it, I am honestly learning more about it as I go. My professor told me one time that it’s okay not to understand your work until later. That seems to be what is happening. At first, my paintings were more about mundane routines and how our private lives might look ridiculous when caught in awkward moments. But now I am discovering that since these are self-portraits — and obviously all female — I feel like I have landed on a new meaning. I live by myself, and there are times when I don’t feel safe. I don’t think these paintings would be as compelling if they were of a man living by himself.

Q. What are prime sources of inspiration for you?
A. I am inspired by my love of art and the challenge of creating something new for viewers to look at or think about. Artists that I have an affinity for are Patrick Jacobs, Olga Antonova and Sanell Aggenbach, among others.

Q. Describe your most rewarding art experience so far.
A. I have been blessed to receive some awards and scholarships, but I would have to say my most rewarding experience was when I entered my first juried art show (Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition’s Momentum OKC 2010) where I won an honorable mention. It really gave me more confidence as an emerging artist and hope that I could do well in the future.

Q. What’s your advice to other artists?
A. Just keep trying. The answer is always no until you try. Keep making work and keep submitting proposals for shows and exhibits.
Q. Do you have a message for patrons of the arts?
A. Every artist has a main message or concept that they want to share. Even though you may not personally like a work of art, try to be open and at least hear the artist out. Sometimes when you learn about the concept of the art, you can appreciate it more. Whether you are an art lover or not, take the time to open yourself up to a new experience when viewing art… you might learn something new.