Meet the Qrafties: Laura Pezza, Watercolour Artist in Hong Kong
July 2020 | 3 Mins Read
Laura Pezza is an Italian self-taught artist based in Hong Kong since 2018, after living in Italy, the US, Germany and Ireland. Her art journey started in 2017 when she realised that she wasn’t spending enough time doing the thing she loved most: painting. Since then, she has created The Quiet Place Art, taught multiple painting workshops, and participated in two exhibitions in Dublin and five in Hong Kong.
For her watercolour illustrations, she finds inspiration in nature, galaxies and the places she travels to. Laura believes in the power of art as a way to connect deeper with oneself, as opposed to the wider audience. In today’s hectic world, she is committed to inspiring more and more people to take up art as a way to find calm, build resilience and create their own quiet place.
When did you start painting and what do you enjoy the most about it?
I’ve been drawing ever since I can remember. However, it was only in 2017 that I decided to take this “hobby” more seriously. I always felt that art was a big part of my identity but when I thought of how much time I actually spent on it… well, it wasn’t much! So, I decided that I would make it a priority in my life. It’s been such a rewarding experience since then! I never thought that I could go as far as having a solo exhibition some day. But besides these external forms of recognition, I find painting to be one of the most enjoyable and soothing activities. It also allowed me to meet some amazing people, some of which I consider as my best friends to this day.
Your artwork focus a lot about peace and balance. Share with us more about it.
My full-time job is as a project manager in a tech company. Most of my day involves creating schedules, plans and checklists. To counter this rational and organized side, I’ll always make time for art. I find painting so therapeutic, almost like meditation, especially after staring at a computer screen all day long! That’s how I find peace and maintain my mental stability.
This idea of balance is reflected in my artworks: the dotwork and hyper detail blend in with the fluid backgrounds, the cold black & white complement the blue skies. The subjects of my artworks vary a lot. Whether it’s a homage to Hong Kong, a far away galaxy or a dreamy whale, the central theme will always be the embrace between rationality and heart.
Where do you usually get your inspiration from and what do you do when you are not inspired to paint?
I get inspiration from wildlife, galaxies and the places I’m attached to personally. I also love Japanese woodblock prints, which are quite recognizable in my style. It’s important not to force the creative spirits, to relax and to take a break from painting (I definitely need to get better at this - sometimes, I expect too much from me).
How has your practice in painting changed over time?
You might find my style quite consistent and recognizable, but that’s only the tip of the iceberg! Behind my “signature style” goes a lot of experimenting with new techniques and styles.
Of so many pieces of paintings you have created, which one is your favourite piece and why?
That’s such a hard question! My favourite is probably Together our Roots Grow Deeper due to its meaning. It’s a metaphor for love and how I think a relationship should be like: two separate and different entities, each preserving and respecting their individual features. Their roots, though, become one and together they can reach greater depths.
What is the first piece of artwork you sold in your life? How has it empowered you in your art journey?
It was an art print about a landmark in Dublin, the city where I lived before moving to Hong Kong. One of my ex colleagues had formed an employee-run association called "Creative Nest" and asked me if I was willing to hold a painting workshop at the office. I refused initially because I honestly didn't feel skilled enough to host such an event. The idea of public speaking also terrified me. Well, I can't thank my colleague enough for encouraging me to get out of my comfort zone and do it. Because that night changed my life. I realized not only that I was well able to host a class, but that I could inspire more people to take up a new hobby and start painting.
Something else happened that night. I had brought my art portfolio to show some examples to my colleagues. One of them looked at my paintings and said "wow, I would totally hang one of these!" The thought that someone else would display one of my artworks in their home hadn't even crossed my mind until then! Within 5 months, I had opened a website, participated in two group exhibits and sold originals & art prints. Believe it or not, but sometimes, even nowadays, I still think it's too good of a dream to be true.
What are you planning to paint next?
I have a lot of ideas. I’d like to create more watercolour paintings in the same style as “The Koi Dance”. I’ve also recently bought a bunch of wood slices which I’d like to use as a medium to paint on and add to my Qraftie store too.
“There’s an unhealthy obsession with finding one’s unique style. I think this can be very damaging, especially if you are a beginner artist because it will preclude you from learning and expanding your skills.”
Which Artist inspired you the most and why?
Hokusai has definitely been a huge source of inspiration. I love the sense of peace, elegance and timelessness that his ukiyo-e evoke. You can definitely find some references to his masterpieces in some of my artworks, like Nothing Can Dim The Light That Shines From Within.
What is the best piece of advice you have received?
There’s an unhealthy obsession with finding one’s unique style. I think this can be very damaging, especially if you are a beginner artist, because it will preclude you from learning and expanding your skills. The best piece of advice I’ve received is to spend more time studying artists that you like and trying out new techniques, instead of obsessing over creating a completely unique and consistent portfolio.
The Big Buddha and The Hong Kong Skyline Art Print
What our Qraftie shopper says:
“Very happy to see The Quiet Place Art available on Qraftie, having seen the art previously and was very pleased with the service too. Laura was flexible despite the current delay in postage by arranging an alternative printing in Chai Wan. She was extremely helpful and responsive throughout.”
How can Artists give back to the community?
I do charity work with my artwork. At the opening of my first solo exhibition in Hong Kong, I sold some art prints whose proceeds were entirely donated to Hong Kong charities. And earlier this year, I went back home in Northern Italy and I witnessed the virus outbreak there. I felt so powerless that I decided to launch a fundraising initiative to support Italy in the fight against the virus. I started selling paintings of my hometown in exchange for a free offer, which would entirely be donated to a local charity. For me, it was a great way to keep busy, while contributing to a good cause. In 30 days, I made a total of 26 original paintings. As a result of this, I raised around 10,000 HKD which I donated to an Italian association of volunteers for first aid rescue. It's amazing what art and solidarity can achieve together!
WORDS FROM OUR FOUNDER
“Laura and I first met at a local art exhibition. She then invited me to her solo exhibition happened a week after where I got an opportunity to learn more about her artwork and her passion behind it. Living in a busy city life, we all have multiple initiatives to take care of each day. Laura’s artwork gives a very positive message on the importance of having inner peace and achieving balance in life. Laura has a very welcoming personality and her generosity on providing support to others make her a likeable person. I am glad to have Laura as part of our Qraftie Community and I am sure many of our members would enjoy her company too.”
Thank you for being an appreciative reader as always. Meet the Qrafties is a series of Qraftie sellers’ stories, sharing with you the passion and hard work behind the creative works you see in their Qraftie stores. If you enjoy reading this blog post, please share it with your family and friends. Stay tuned on our next Meet the Qrafties story.
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The Qraftie blog aims to provide you stories related to craftsmanship, culture and lifestyle around Hong Kong.
