isendyouthis.com

artportfolio: Leilani Roosman

Little acts of kindness

Little acts of kindness

Cherished treasures, held close to the heart.

Original
Acrylic on paper
36cm x 27cm

Introduction

Statement

I like to experiment with colour and pattern in an abstract format. With the clash of contrasts or harmony of opposites, I try to express a sense of dynamic order (see Goldberg Variations) or chaotic movement (see Summer Hustle Bustle), or sometimes a combination of the two (see Flights of Fancy) in my work. I choose to work in acrylics because the intense and surreal hues give voice to strong emotions. Its immediacy also accords with the instinctual way in which I lay colour on paper. Having spent most of my life in places where the light is stark and colours are deep, I have a basic need to express this visual memory in my work. I also like to incorporate collage into my work. It allows me to capture the energy and movement of the big stroke, and combine it with the precision and detail of the scalpel. Every piece of collage starts life as part of a large abstract painting in which I freely experiment with colours, textures and surfaces. The results almost immediately suggest specific forms and environments. When I see a twilight sea in a rush of colour, that is the moment that delights me. After that, it is a small step to give borders to a form that is already there.

Biography

BA (Hons) Graphic Design - Central Saint Martins College of Art & Design - 1994 to 1997

Foundation Diploma in Art & Design - Middlesex University - 1993 to 1994

BA (Asian Studies) - Australian National University - 1981 to 1984

 

Born in Hawaii and of Javanese heritage, Leilani Roosman's early life was informed by a multitude of cultural influences. Indonesia, the US, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea and Australia were among the countries her family lived in. As an adult, she lived and worked in China, Hong Kong and the US before moving to London in 1993 to study illustration.

Since graduating from Central Saint Martins in 1997, she has produced work for sale and exhibition. In 2000, she was commissioned by The Strand gallery in Aldeburgh to produce a series of collages based on the operas Peter Grimes and Arlecchino, both of which were performed at the Aldeburgh Festival that year.

The cultures and colours of her countries of childhood continue to exert a strong influence on her art.  She now lives in London with her husband.