Artist Interview with Perla Mignanelli

Perla Mignanelli is an Italian painter, who recently joined Wimbledon Art Studios. Inspired by gothic art, women and her surroundings, we’re keen to find out more about Perla and her practice.

Hi Perla, so what do you enjoy about being an artist here at Wimbledon Art Studios?

The creative environment - there are so many various and talented artists sharing knowledge and skills, spending time together and help each other out. You’re surrounded by people who believe in what they do.

Tell us about your work, what are you known for?

I mainly do painting and mixed media on canvas, mostly portraits.

What should we expect to see at the upcoming Wimbledon Art Fair?

Inspired by Frida Kahlo and Mexican Art, my latest collection of paintings is part of what I call decorative art. I’m experimenting with displaying canvases layered on top of each other at different angles.

Where else can we see your work?

I have an exhibition at The Brick Lane Gallery from the 9 - 21 October 2018.

Thanks Perla, we look forward to visiting you in studio 282 at Wimbledon Art Fair, from the 15 - 18 November 2018.

Artist Interview with Richard Knight

Hi Richard, so tell us about your work?

My paintings attempt to capture the perpetually evolving patterns and rhythms of light created by architecture, landscape and people. I paint this 'dance to the music of time' by fusing observational drawing with colour, texture and pattern, I want the spectator to recognise what and where I paint and enjoy my interpretation of familiar places and situations.

Anything new for the May Open Studios?

Having spent some time in New York last year I will be showing some of my impressionist work from there.

Where did your career start?

After an upbringing on the family farm on the coast of North Cornwall, I left my tractor behind to train in graphic design and illustration at Kingston University in the mid '80s. I’ve since spent thirty years in the creative industry in London, first as an illustrator and graphic designer, and now as a full time artist.

Apart from the May Open Studios, where else can we see your work?

My work can be seen at the Art Agency, Esher, Catherine Miller Gallery, Chelsea among others. My work appeared at the Battersea Affordable Art fair in March with the Art Agency then at the Hampstead Affordable in May with Mint Gallery.

Highlights of your career so far?

In 2016, I was chosen to appear on Sky Landscape Artist of the Year, my work is mostly ‘Urban impressionism'

What do you enjoy about being at WAS?

Mixing with other artists, having the facilities available to show my work twice a year in the Open Studios and the sheer convenience of a studio so close to central London.

To find out more about Richard Knight and his work visit richardknightsart.co.uk