Elisa Valenti in conversation with Abstract Expressionist Artist, Joan Blond

Prior to becoming an artist full-time, I spent more than a decade working as a Pharmacist. Making the switch was the easiest, yet most conflicting decision I have had to make. How does one break through amongst so many formally trained artists? Will people like my work? Can I really do this?

I sat down with Joan Blond, the abstract expressionist artist based out of Australia timed with the release of our first collaboration titled, “Sharp Edges and Soft Sides,” to talk about her career, artwork and what inspires her. Blond is also a self-taught artist worked in the legal field for more than 25 years took a leap of faith turning to art full-time and hasn’t looked back. Her work has been on display at shows across the globe and featured in magazines such as Home Beautiful and House & Garden.

Prior to turning to art, you were in the legal field for 25 years – tell me a bit about your journey to becoming a full-time artist?

I have always loved painting and have dabbled for years but did not paint as much when I had three young children to raise. However, when they grew up and left home I started painting again and people started asking if they could purchase my work. I realised people really did love my work. I painted on the weekends and from Monday through Friday I worked as an executive PA for a partner of a law firm for 21 years, but finally took the leap of faith and left to pursue painting as a full-time career.

Did you ever feel like you had more to prove as a self-taught artist?

My mother was a very talented artist, so I have always been surrounded by art, but I have had no formal training aside from attending quite a few workshops run by various artists and picked up some interesting tips. Basically, I’m self-taught. I never felt I had anything to prove because I was self-taught, probably because I know a lot of successful artists who are also didn’t formally train. I was told by an artist once that if I did go back and do some formal training it may stifle the style I already had.

How would you define your voice as an artist, and how has this evolved?

The message I am sending the viewer of my art is one of happiness, a love of life and a love of the beautiful colours we are surrounded by and positive energy.

Let’s chat the new Joan Blond x Elisa Valenti collection – what was your inspiration behind these pieces?

When you and I talked, and we just felt a painting marrying our two styles could be very interesting. The beautiful skin tones of your figures were a beautiful contrast with my vibrant colours.

While art is a deeply personal thing for the artist, and viewer, what do you wish to evoke through your pieces?

I want people to be uplifted by my paintings - to feel a happy energy while viewing them. I want my paintings to bring life and colour to the space people live in. When there is so much darkness and uncertainty in the world, I want my paintings to be a positive element in their lives. I want people to come home from whatever they have been doing out in the world & to gaze at my art and feel happy.

Sharp Edges and Soft Sides

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