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Aloha, La Jolla!
Wise Celtic women, like my Aunt France, would believe Windansea artist Lucy Fitzmaurice had been “kissed by the pixies.” I agree! Like the shimmering thin places dotting the mystical landscape of her ancestral Ireland, Lucy’s art is enchanting.
I caught up with Lucy as she pivoted from showcasing her paintings at Tides of Creativity, the La Jolla Shores Association’s summer solstice celebration of coastal art, literature and community. She’s priming her muse for her next adventure: Teaching artists in bloom the alchemy of Alebrijes — a Mexican artistic medium known for its bright colors and intricate patterns — to bring hand-carved wooden hummingbirds to life in paintbrush strokes of vibrant color.
In this week’s Doers and Dreamers interview, you’ll meet Lucy and discover how her artistic vision is shaped by Windansea’s irresistible pull of ocean, sand and sky.
LJVN: When did you discover your gift for artistic expression?
Ever since I can remember I’ve been drawn to create, whether it be drawing, sewing, or air clay. I wanted to do it all! It’s silly, but one of my youngest memories is from preschool. I was so excited to show my mom that I figured I could hold multiple crayons at once to draw — it was honestly just a scribble — but I just thought it was so amazing!
LJVN: What inspires your artistic vision?
My inspiration comes from all things fantasy and nature. Besides being an artist, I’m a fairy mermaid, so I find such joy in painting the ocean, tidepools, sea creatures, plus florals, landscapes, plants, animals and, of course, my fur babies — one dog and three cats.
LJVN: How would you describe your signature artistic medium?
My signature medium is mixed media watercolor. I quite enjoy the look of gold foil with shimmering watercolors. I’m obsessed with sparkles so 99% of my art will include a shimmery sparkly glow, and often sea glass and seaweed from my tide pooling adventures. I’m currently pressing flowers to incorporate into some newer pieces. Texture is a must for me!
LJVN: How does living in Windansea shape your artistic vision?
No matter where I am in the world, Windansea will always be the center of my heart and home. I was born and raised in La Jolla, so Windansea has played a tremendous part in my upbringing, personally and artistically. Its aqua green waters swirling, as the seaweed tendrils sway daintily amongst the rocks, is my greatest source of inspiration.
LJVN: As an artist, what are your aspirations over the next 5-10 years?
I’d like to spread love and create a community through my art. My dream is to have a storefront inviting all types of creatives to sell art, and host events, classes and private lessons. I wish to travel the world and gain more inspiration from my experiences with other peoples, cultures and landscapes.
LJVN: Would you describe yourself as a Doer or a Dreamer? Why?
I consider myself a doer and dreamer. I have many dreams and am willing to put in the maximum effort to get there. I will go the distance to achieve my dreams and aspirations to support my family now and the family I hope to start soon with my fiancé.
LJVN: Tell us about your upcoming workshop.
If you would like to create your own art piece, join me on July 11 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., at Vortice Artesana & Design for our Alebrijes hummingbird workshop! Everyone will receive a hand-carved wooden hummingbird, made by artisans in Oaxaca Mexico, to paint and bring to life. I hope to see you there!
Molly Bowman-Styles
La Jolla Village News newsletter host
La Jolla story spotlight
In its 46th year, Bird Rock’s Fourth of July parade is stronger than ever
By Dave Schwab • Times of San Diego
The parade began in 1980 and was run by locals Buddy and Barbara Murfey. The couple’s sons, Russ and Scott, are not carrying on the tradition.
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