FilipinoArt.ph is participating in the month-long celebration of women in March. The theme, “Women in Art: Exploring the Experiences and Perspectives of Female Artists and their Place in the Art World,” highlights the female artists’ experiences and how they engage with the greater art community. This theme inspires us to consider the special difficulties female artists confront and how their work contributes to a broader discussion about gender and representation in art. It aims to highlight the many viewpoints and experiences of female artists and to recognize their contributions to the field of art.
Meet Lisa Capito, a former creative director who discovered canvas and acrylic as a medium during the lockdown, allowing her to experiment with abstract, modern, and contemporary art. Her passion for art and creativity, combined with her previous experience with color and style, has enabled her to create stunning pieces that capture the essence of her artistic vision.
How has being a female artist impacted your identity as an artist and a woman?
“While art, when appreciated, is genderless, my identity as a female artist, I believe, is shown in my art through the fluidity and elegance in the mixture of color, texture, and shapes. My art allows me to express my creativity and emotion.”
What role does art have in your life as a woman?
“Related to my answers previously, art allows me to express my feelings and emotions through a medium; it will enable me to make my thoughts tangible and visual.”
Are there any female artists who have inspired or influenced your work? Who are they, and how?
“I draw inspiration from all artists, so in a sense, all are my favorites, but it is women’s month. As an abstract artist, I would say that Hilma af Klint would be on the list as she was the trailblazer for female abstract art. Frida Kahlo, of course, because she is the standard bearer for women in art. Yayoi Kusama is also inspiring in her playfulness.”
How do you feel your identity as a woman has influenced your artistic style and subject matter?
“My style is primarily abstract and fluid, and these play into the female psyche ever evolving and constantly moving.”
Can you tell us about any specific challenges you’ve faced as a female artist in your career?
“If at all, it has helped. More people appreciate the beauty and the art from a woman’s point of view. And frankly, art takes on its own “gender,” so to speak, once it’s on the canvas (in my case).”
Can you talk about a specific painting of yours and the story behind it?
“I made this piece during the height of the lockdown; it was a time when I felt “confined” and longed to be out in the open. During this time, I would imagine being on the beach, with sand on my toes, while looking out to sea. But because of the lockdown, I knew I couldn’t hence the piece’s title. It was like I was at the edge of something I still couldn’t reach. This piece made tangible what I couldn’t see at that moment.”
In your opinion, what can be done to improve the representation and recognition of female artists in the art world?
“Not just for the art world but for gender bias in general, I think it’s a two-way street. On the one hand, we shouldn’t, as females, sell ourselves short. Conversely, we shouldn’t “weaponize” our being female and use gender equality as propaganda.”
What advice would you give young women aspiring to pursue an art career?
“Do it for the love of art and expression. The beauty of art is that it is transcendental. It knows no boundaries, as should you.”
– Toby Denise Concepcion