ART: INTERVIEW WITH LO HENNESSEY

Lo Hennessey is a Massachusetts-based artist who graduated with her Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Simmons University in 2016. She specializes in acrylic paintings, oil paintings, and watercolor paintings. Her work is characterized by vibrant colors, loud vision, and feminist energy.

Lo is interested in incorporating human anatomy and biomechanics in her paintings, utilizing her experience with human body dissection and postural analysis as the basis of her artwork. As a novice artist, she hopes to continue her journey towards anatomical realism while incorporating elements of abstraction, anatomical distortion, and impressionism.

 

 

INTERVIEW WITH LO HENNESSEY

 

When did you first realize you wanted to become a painter?

I stumbled upon painting on a whim at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, I realized I did not want to stop painting after completing my first piece.

If you could go back and tell yourself one thing before beginning your career what would it be? 

I would have to go back to beginning my physical therapy career as this was essential in my artistry. I would tell myself to be open minded and not have expectations of what your career will be like- it will become nothing like you imagined.

How do you want your clients to feel when they buy your art pieces?

I want them to feel inspired and that they are purchasing a product worth the value based on the story behind it and the knowledge and effort required to complete the artwork.

 

 

How was the feeling after your first painting?  

After my first painting I had a really corny moment where I was overwhelmed with emotion. It was like I was connecting with a part of myself I never realized was there. After being so focused on external validation and the desire to be accepted by others, it felt great to finally have an understanding of what is inside of me and what I am capable of creating. 

What’s your favourite painting and why?

My favorite painting to date is ‘Moneymaker,’ which I completed in 2022. I love the color, body positioning, and fashion most in this painting.

 

 

There is one important person in your life, who pushes and motivates you to believe in yourself?

My mom. I was raised by a single mom, so when I need motivation I go to her.

Tell us how your feelings influence the creativity process?

My feelings dictate how much I am able to create and the mood of the piece in process. Every aspect of the painting is dictated by my current emotional state, for example the quality of the brush strokes and the color choices.

What are the next steps for you as an artist, in order to grow up more?

My next step will always be to continue learning and improving my process.