Delighted to introduce art student Kelly Wu to The FLUX Review Q&A’s…
Self-taught or art school?
I have just finished my A-Levels, one of which was Art and Design, and am going to continue my studies at Central Saint Martins in the Autumn. I’m doing a foundation year there and hope to do a Fine Arts degree afterwards at the Paris College of Art.
If you could own one work of art what would it be?
‘The Women of Amphissa’ by Lawrence Alma-Tadema. I just think it’s the most beautiful painting in the world.
How would you describe your style?
I don’t have a style really. I’m just experimenting with different media in hopes that one day I will find one that I really gel with.
Is narrative important within your work?
For larger and more conclusive works, I would say that it is. I like to have a story behind each painting and to create more depth than can be perceived just visually. However, I am also keen on the notion of ‘art for art’s sake’ and so do a lot of meaningless experimental work.
Who are your favourite artists and why?
At the moment my favourite artists are probably Stephanie Sarley and Maisie Cousins. I’ve been looking at their work for inspiration in my most recent project and I just think both of them are so interesting and innovative.
What or who inspires your art?
My art teachers, my artist friends and work by different artists that I see online or in galleries. Sometimes I get inspired by nature too, but most of the time my art is inspired by other art.
Where’s your studio and what’s it like?
My bedroom and my classroom. They’ve got everything I need in terms of supplies so I have no complaints.
Do you have any studio rituals?
None at all. Each painting is more chaotic than the last.
What are you working on currently?
A little square sketchbook is full of abstract experimentation. I have found that doing art in short meaningless bursts is better for my productivity during lockdown than anything intricate, anything that requires a lot of focus. I’m using media such as plaster, alginate, wax, modroc and more.
Where can we buy your art?
Shoot me a message on Instagram – @mothwu.
What are your ambitions?
One day I want to have a solo exhibition.