In conversation with Lily Lewis

“I hope people enjoy the work immediately but then gradually see more and deeper into the pieces.”

- Lily Lewis

Lily Lewis. Photo by Justin Goff.

Lily Lewis is an autodidact and multidisciplinary artist working in the realms of the narrative, be that in the form of a painting, a poem, large scale sculptures, tapestry, or performance. Drawing her inspiration and sources of study largely from the human condition, the individual’s experience and interaction in the world. She has had exhibitions of her works and is invited to perform and recite her poetry globally. Entirely self taught, playfulness and stimulations to reconnect to the purity of childhood are tools Lily often utilises to open the gateway to her creations. She lives in london with her dog Betty.

How did your journey into art begin? Did you grow up in a creative environment? 

I found it hard when I was younger to express myself. I still do, doesn’t everyone? so I use writing and painting. What I can’t write I paint, and what I can’t say in paint I write.

At what point did you realise you wanted to pursue a career in the art world?

I knew from a very young age I wanted to make things, to use my hands, but I didn’t really see it as an option. Very little was expected of me growing up, but then when I started working in the world, in an office and hated it with every cell of my being I knew there was no other option for me than to paint my way out.

You are one of twelve artists who created giant artist eggs for the Little Egg Hunt currently on display throughout Chelsea to raise awareness for wildlife conservation charity, The Elephant Family. How did you get involved in this project?

I actually painted one of the very first elephants, the first time Elephant Family organised such an incredible undertaking. I have, to date, painted one elephant and two eggs. I love the charity and would do a million.

What kind of experience do you envision for visitors engaging with your art?

I work with subverting expectation a lot and hide, ironically, Easter eggs and dual meaning in all my pieces. I hope people enjoy the work immediately but then gradually see more and deeper into the pieces. It’s fun to be rewarded for being observant.

Throughout your artistic journey, what has been the most rewarding moment for you?

Making work that people connect with is the most rewarding thing, and to look at a work and feel that it conveys the meaning and emotion that I felt painting it.

What has been the most significant lesson you've learned about yourself, your abilities, or life in general, during your career?

That the biggest block is always going to be fear, and small fear is the sneakiest blocker to creativity. The trick is to turn up everyday, make something everyday, even if you don’t want to, you don’t feel like it, you’re not inspired. The longer you leave it the scarier it gets. That and ‘this is supposed to be fun!’

Photo by Justin Goff.

Are there any noteworthy upcoming projects you can discuss at this time?

Yes! I’m going to Venice for the biennale next week then I get back and im working on 2 exhibitions and writing a book. 

The [Quick] #FLODown:

Best life advice?

Don’t take anything too seriously, none of this is that big a deal.

Last song you listened to?

Good Morning by Kanye

Last book you read?

Spell of the Sensuous by David Abrams

Can't live without…?

Sleep

What should the art world be more of and less of?

More kindness, always. Less prevention, always.

Little Egg Hunt is free to view throughout Chelsea until 14 April 2024.

Instagram: @tigerlilylewis.

To discover more about the Elephant Family visit: elephant-family.org

Instagram: @elephantfamily.