Meet the Workshop Hosts: Laura (Olhos Violeta) • Sip & Paint
We are very excited to welcome our new Sip & Paint teacher: Laura aka Olhos Violeta!
Keep reading to find out more about her art style and what to expect from our new Sip & Paint classes.
Starring eyes (blue), 20x20 cm, Acrylic Paint, Soap Bubbles and Googly Eyes on Stretched Canvas
Our members are looking forward to get to know you! Can you tell us a little about yourself and how you got into teaching sip and paint classes?
My name is Laura I’m 25 y/o. I was born and raised in Oporto, where I studied Fashion Design for three years. I then moved to the UK in 2018 to start my Bachelor’s degree in Fine Art at Cambridge School of Art. While in Cambridge I had the opportunity to be part of multiple exhibitions. In 2022 I moved to Brighton to pursue my art career.
I started teaching Sip & Paint classes as a fun and relaxing way to share my skills and encourage people to be creative.
What inspired you to become an artist?
Since I can remember, drawing has been my favourite thing to do and I’m very lucky to have the support of my family. It’s not an easy path but making art is what makes me happy, it’s how I deal with how I’m feeling. I can be free and messy. It’s a way to escape from reality and process the world.
“20x20 Vision” Group Exhibition, London 2023
How would you describe your artistic style?
I would describe most of my works as Contemporary Surrealism. I like to work with mixed media adding 3D elements to create detailed dreamlike paintings.
Who or what are your biggest artistic influences?
I'm influenced by the works of the surrealist painter Salvador Dali and the impressionist painter Claude Monet.
Inka Essenhigh, Monika Marchewka and Anthony Achilles are examples of contemporary artists who also inspire me.
“Enlightened” 2024, 30x40 cm, Acrylic Paint on Stretched Canvas
What can students expect from your classes?
I want people to have a good time! I’ll be teaching different painting techniques while encouraging students to put a part of themselves into their artwork. As an artist, it’s important for me that each piece becomes tailored and personal to each individual.
During the lesson, we will be recreating one of my paintings. However, the reference is just a starting point. It will be up to you to add your own spin!
Do you have a favourite painting or project you’ve worked on?
My favourite painting I’ve done to date is called “Attached”. I did this painting while in university in 2020. It’s not the biggest or the most detailed one but it’s full of symbolism and meaning.
“Attached” 2020, 55x70cm, Mixed Media on Stretched Canvas
What advice do you have for beginners who are new to painting?
Study your colour theory! It really makes a difference when mixing colours and setting the mood of a painting. I also recommend experimenting with different colours, themes, techniques and styles. Another way to start your journey into painting is to gather pictures of different artworks that appeal to you, analyse what they have in common and start exploring whatever that is!
Quickfire time! 🔥 What are some of your favourite places around Brighton?
I love to go to the Marina Boot Sale to find inspiration in the odd and vintage pieces. I also enjoy checking out all the small art businesses around the Lanes and the multiple art and craft fairs we have all year round.
If you could paint anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?
I would love to go somewhere sunny with a cottage surrounded by flowers, trees and animals. A quiet and spacious place where I can feel my love for peace, freedom, nature and art.
“Lost” 2021, 170x130 cm, Oil Paint on Stretched Canvas
