We had the good fortune of connecting with Lisa Bryson and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Lisa, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
My drive has always been to find a purpose and direction for my life that is centered on creativity, inspiration and expression. My brain is wired in a way that “sees” things a little different. Tapping into that special weirdness is exciting and fuels my everyday existence. Documenting life, developing a narrative that is understood and quite possibly shared by others through an artistic platform remains a constant. I connect to the world around me through active observation, art allows me to comment, shape, and rearrange life’s everyday moments.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I am a painter. I work in oil paints and primarily paint portraits. But I bring a unique approach to my work, my style is in a camp of its own. I would call it representational abstraction. For the smaller works, I use the typical art tools: brushes and palette knives, but for my large scale paintings, I use additional unexpected tools such as masonry trowels and squeegees. I introduced LED lights to a portrait that is set to a motion sensor. The lights are undetectable until lit. The inclusion of lights was important to the narrative. I explore the everyday, elevate the mundane and comment on popular culture. There is often humor with dark undertones in my work. I want people to “experience” my work on a profound level.

My “style” (approach to painting) took a long time to discover, a lot of trial and error–and a lot of wasted paint. But I knew I would eventually find my voice and direction for my work. There are always challenges in the creative field. You have to believe in yourself, work hard (yes, painting is hard work), and definitely be your own cheerleader. Have a strong support system around you and be supportive to others.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If I had a friend visiting for a week long trip, I would take them to several beaches, Liberty Station Arts District and restaurants at NTC, our awesome Zoo, Balboa Park, Downtown nightlife–bars and restaurants.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I have to give a big shoutout to my family and friends. They have always accepted and supported me. The artistic life isn’t an easy choice, a career with many challenges, but my close circle continues to encourage.

Website: https://lbryson.com/home.html

Instagram: bryson_mode