Lisa-Marie Price
Lisa-Marie Price is a London based abstract painter who explores the connection between nature, people and place. Her methodical style is created using handmade watercolour sourced from natural pigment foraged from both urban and rural settings, forging a unique connection between the land and her paintings.
Describe the nature around you at this moment?
I’m currently writing this sitting in my garden in north London. It’s a glorious fresh, sunny spring morning. The grass is long and the birds are chirping.
How would you describe your nature connection?
An ongoing one. One of learning. Nature continues to fascinate me and surprise me. I am learning to notice the little things but also consider the bigger picture.
Where do you feel most at ease?
In the woods. There is something quite special about being beneath the canopy of the swooshing trees above. The way that you can hear the gentle build-up from a breeze that slowly erupts into a glorious chorus of rustling leaves. Being in the woods feels like a close friend giving you a warm hug.
How can art help us think and act more collectively?
Art has the ability to start conversations that can implement meaningful change. As an example, if a work of art is inspired by sustainability, climate change or consumerism, such as my own, it can lead to conversations that might make people think differently about the role they play in this.
There are many artists whose work is centered around our planet, how we impact it and ways we can help to improve how we treat it. These works allow an open dialogue that isn't threatening or forceful. The beauty and fascination of art invites people to think differently; individually and collectively.
Is there anything you’re curious about right now?
In my art, I use rocks and earth to create my watercolour paints but since I started to make my own paints I have only been able to collect material from the UK. I am currently curious about the potential of new rocks / new colour palettes from other countries. I am particularly curious about visiting a small island in Greece called Milos.
What’s your top tip?
While out walking, look down as well as around. You will spot things that you might have otherwise trampled on. Sit still a while and listen. When we are out on a walk we tend to think about getting from A to B - but take it slow. Find somewhere to take a moment and enjoy where you are. There are things you might miss if you just keep walking. Birds will emerge, insects will crawl past you and shadows will change. Try to notice the beautiful little things along the way.
What kind of ancestor do you want to be?
One who has inspired others to care for each other and to care for the land that provides for them daily.
What inspires you every day?
Our potential. I am a true believer in what you give to others, you will receive in return. I am constantly inspired by people's courage, strength, determination and love for one another and for ourselves.
What are you reading, watching or listening to?
I’m a bit of a magpie when it comes to books. I want to read them all at once. I have at least three books on the go right now as well as two audiobooks. I think it's important to keep learning. I want to absorb all the information I can. I’m re-reading Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert, if you haven't read it, give it a read. While I paint, I listen to audiobooks mostly rather than music and I am currently switching between listening to Origins: The Search for Our Prehistoric Past by Frank H.T Rhodes and The Lost Daughter by Elena Ferrante.
What question would you like to ask a future guest of #TheNatureKind?
Where is your favourite place to be in nature?
Could you suggest someone else or other organisations you admire that we could approach for #TheNatureKind series?
A few names are Tilke Elkins, who runs Wild Pigment Project (wildpigmentproject.org/tilke-elkins) I am signed up to her Ground Bright subscription where she sends you a pigment each month and 22% of the profit is contributed back to land conservation. A local person who might be good to approach could be Charlene Sandy (www.charlenesandy.co.uk) who is using plant materials in her textile designs.
You can find out more on Lisa's Instagram page and her website.