LaSaundra Robinson, an accomplished painter herself, curates the third annual Juneteenth exhibit at ARTFUL. She sits down with Shannon Morris to discuss her work and the upcoming exhibit.

Shannon Morris: What artist/artists most influence your work?

LaSaundra Robinson: Henry Taylor, Kerry James Marshall, and Charly Palmer along with countless YouTube and Instagram artists keep me wanting to paint and try new things.

Your style has evolved over the years. Can you tell us about that?

When I first started painting, I would just find a couple interesting images, put them together to make a story. I used a lot of mixed media then. I decided to focus on what I really wanted to paint and that was Black women. After painting in a more realistic style using oils, I began to experiment using a looser style using acrylic paint.

What is the biggest challenge that you face?

The biggest challenge I face is being a single mom and a caregiver with not a lot of support. Having lupus steals my energy, but whenever I can I’m out here trying my best to move forward with my art and this amazing art community we have in Cleveland.

Rainbows are a common theme in your work. Can you tell us more about that?

Rainbows for me are a symbol of going through some sort of storm or trouble in your life and making it to a better time, a goal or dream that you may have.

What do you most enjoy about curating this event?

I really enjoy meeting emerging artists that haven’t shown before and giving them that opportunity; it is awesome. It is also inspiring to see all the work that comes in.

You have had a studio at ARTFUL since 2017. Why is this where you choose to do your work?

I love my studio at ARTFUL because it is definitely a place you can grow as an artist. There is an amazing community of artists that are always willing to help and give you feedback on whatever you’re doing or working on. And being a mom of special needs kids, I definitely needed a place that is accessible.

If you would like to submit your work to be included in the show, please contact Lasaundra216@hotmail.com.

ARTFUL
2843 Washington Boulevard
Cleveland Heights, Ohio 44118
Facebook: Artful Cleveland
Instagram: @artful_cleveland
Twitter: @artfulclevelandartfulcleveland.org

EVENTS

3rd Annual Juneteenth Exhibit, Opening 6-9pm Saturday, June 15

ARTFUL Open Studios / PEACE POPS, 6-9pm Friday, July 26

Batrachomymochia—A Tiny Homeric Epic, TBA