Today we’d like to introduce you to Louisa McHugh.
Louisa, please kick things off for us by telling us about yourself and your journey so far.
My story as an artist began in childhood, painting with my Crayola watercolors in the backyard… I noticed early on that I had an affinity for transparent watercolor, preferring it to any other medium. I ended up leaving painting for some time though, after being dissuaded by a professor at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago who gave an opening speech saying that less than 10% of us would end up in art related careers. I ended up graduated from Columbia College, Chicago in ’05 with a BA in film/video. Shortly after, I joined the union as a Camera Assistant and went out to LA.
After short time, however, I decided I needed to return to my roots as a painter. I spent several years undergoing an intense period of independent study. A style developed, and I began entering shows, and, right off the bat, winning awards. As time went on, people began to call on me to teach… Currently, I am the gallery manager, as well as, a Signature Artist of the National Watercolor Society.
Can you give our readers some background on your art?
I work on paper with transparent watercolor, usually in large format. I paint detailed, figurative works that I splash over, adding an element of abstraction. I choose subjects that speak to me, often finding interest in the ordinary. The splashing and dripping over the work causes the subjects to drift in an out of focus, while giving the painting a sense of movement and life.
What would you recommend to an artist new to the city, or to art, in terms of meeting and connecting with other artists and creatives?
Join your local art groups and societies. Start finding the meetings and entering the exhibitions…
What’s the best way for someone to check out your work and provide support?
Galaria Mijares- LA Downtown Art Walk, Los Angeles, CA
Latino Museum of History Art & Culture, Los Angeles, CA
MOLAA- Women’s Day Virtual Display, Long Beach, CA
South Bay Watercolor Society, San Pedro, CA
CA 101 Show, Redondo Beach, CA
Beverly Hills Art Show, Beverly Hills, CA
National Watercolor Society, 96th International Exhibition, San Pedro, CA
Muckenthaler, NWS Figure and Portrait Exhibition, Fullerton, CA
www.louisamchugh.com
@louisa.mchugh
Contact Info:
- Website: lousiamchugh.com
- Email: louisa@louisamchugh.com
- Instagram: @louisa.mchugh
- Facebook: Louisa Mc Q
Louisa’s Artwork
Image Credit:
1. Building a Harbor II
2. A Streetcar Named Desire
3. American Iron Worker
4. The Vincent Thomas
5. Dudley Court
6. Venice
Getting in touch: VoyageChicago is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
