Layered Paintings, with Chris Liberti

I’ve always been intrigued by layered paintings. I don’t know if you’ve had that same draw but there is something about the textures and the grooves that draw you in and makes you wonder why the artist added that piece or that mark in a way that is unique in its own right. My guest, Chris Liberti has a similar draw and fascination with layered paintings. In our conversation, Chris describes why the layered effect has such an influence in his work. I also share how it connects to a personal story in my life.

Connecting artwork to a personal space

Do you have a favorite place you like to work on your art besides the studio environment? What is it about that place that resonates with you in a way no other place does? Artist Chris Liberti shared with me that one of his favorite places to go and paint is in his parent's basement. Didn’t see that coming did you? The way Chris describes this space and why he likes to go back and paint a particular utility sink is really touching. As he describes what that artwork and that space meant to him, I was instantly transported to that location. I have a feeling that Chris’ story and the way he looks at his artwork will resonate with artist like you.

Preparing for a Gallery Show

I’m sure many artists like you wonder if your habits and processes for preparing for a gallery show are similar to other artists or if YOU are the weird one. Luckily, I caught my guest Chris Liberti in the middle of his process preparing for an upcoming gallery show. Chris was kind enough to indulge my questions about how he prepares and what he likes to do to get his work and himself personally ready for the sometimes herculean feat of showing his work. I found it fascinating to get a peek into Chris’ process and I know you will enjoy it too!

Working through the artistic process

I know many artists will resonate with that famous line from a U2 song “I still haven’t found what I’m looking for…” That seems to be an accurate description when discussing the artistic process and understanding what an artist is trying to connect with or convey with their artwork. Chris Liberti discussed with me how he focuses on the colors he uses and how he lets them sort of “Speak” to him along the way as he is creating his artwork. You’ve got to hear how Chris talks about his process, it’s fascinating and unique, also don’t miss examples of Chris’ fabulous work at the end of this post below.

Parenting as an Artist

There are many different aspects of an artist that gets drawn out when they become a parent. I’ve had the pleasure of talking to both mothers and father who are artists and each brings a very unique and fascinating perspective on how parenting has influenced and even changed their approach to their artwork. Chris Liberti has two little girls and in our conversation, he touches on their influence in his artwork as well as how being a parent has shaped his time and his perspective. It was intriguing to hear from yet another parent who incorporates their artwork and their time with their children work in a balanced way.

Outline of This Episode

• [0:35] My introduction to today’s guest, Chris Liberti.
• [4:00] What inspires and drives Chris as an artist?
• [7:30] Chris talks about working in his studio and how he starts a project.
• [12:00] Artwork that Chris is particularly attached to.
• [15:00] Chris talks about the layered effect of his paintings.
• [20:00] Mediums Chris uses.
• [24:00] Projects Chris is currently working on.
• [27:30] How Chris prepares for a gallery showing.
• [34:30] Artists that have influenced Chris.
• [37:20] What is Chris trying to convey or connect with in his work?
• [44:00] How being a parent has influenced Chris’ work.

Other artists mentioned on this episode

• Ann Gale
• Israel Hershberg
• Richard Diebenkorn
• Henri Matisse
• Antonio López García
• Alex Kanevsky
• Sangram Majumda
• Catherine Kehoe
• Vincent van Gogh
• Claude Monet
• Frank Auerbach

Resources Mentioned on this episode

• Chris’ website: chrisliberti.com
• Chris’ Instagram page: instagram.com/chris_liberti_paintings
• Chris’ Facebook page: facebook.com/chris.liberti.9
• John Natsoulas Gallery
• Book: Hawthorne On Painting
• Richard Diebenkorn's 10 Rules

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