Lisa Claisse

Year of birth: Born in Hawaii in 1965.
Where do you live: Currently Mastic Beach, NY on Long Island. I hope to move to Washington State someday soon.
Your education: No education, it is just a natural talent I discovered I had at an early age. I sold my first drawing at age 13, it was a portrait of Elvis Presley in charcoal.
Describe your art in three words: Dreams come true.
Your discipline: I think of art as alchemy – I turn lead into gold – paper into money. It is magic!
Website | Instagram

Lisa Claisse | Peaceful Water | 2021

How did your travels across the United States influence your artistic style?

I was exposed to many different environments and cultures. The natural habitats intrigued me the most. From a very young age I was drawn into each new territory to explore: High desert, low desert, forest, mountain, ocean. I loved watching the wildlife and smelling and tasting the wild plants. Murals and graffiti also influenced my art.

What draws you to paint nature, and how do you capture its fleeting beauty in your work?

I have always felt very connected to nature. I have seen what human damage can do to destroy a once beautiful place. I like to make my pictures as crisp and beautiful as nature is at her best. Our planet is very important to me. It breaks my heart when I see our natural things destroyed. I hope that someday humans will somehow reconnect with the natural world in a more sustainable way.

Lisa Claisse | Bridge and sailboats | 2022

What roles do traditional and digital tools play in your creative process? How do you balance them?

I started out as a traditional artist, but we must make money, so I started working as a silkscreen artist, and later as a graphic artist for several magazines. When I got my first Apple computer I was captivated. I got hooked on Photoshop. I love to scan in my art and manipulate it with Photoshop — the possibilities are endless.

You’ve exhibited your work in California, Florida, and New York. How do you feel the artistic communities differ across these regions?

I find that people are basically the same in every community. Most people are nice, bad people are very rare. I am always attracted to artists, museums and art groups.

Lisa Claisse | Goldfinch on Delft | 2022

Your art often evokes a sense of dreaminess. Could you share more about your approach to blending reality and imagination in your paintings?

Most of my art comes from my dreams. I want to feel good when I see my art and I want people to feel good when they see it. 

How has your involvement with BACCA and East End Arts impacted your artistic journey?

They showcase my work so that the community sees it. They inspire me and I have made some great friends. 

Lisa Claisse | Truck barn 3 | 2020

What are some of the key lessons you’ve learned from meeting and interacting with other artists?

We feed off each other in a good way. I am inspired by seeing artworks by other artists. I have learned many tips and techniques and discovered new tools and supplies. I also find venues to show and sell my art.