Interview: Painter Who Transitioned from Goldsmith Uses Metal Leaf to Seize the Enchantment of Wildlife
Mixed-media artist Marie Lavallee serves as a wonderful reminder that creativity can take multiple forms. Her love for painting began in high school, after which she built a career as a goldsmith, eventually returning to painting after the age of 50. Despite her shift in mediums, remnants of her previous craft are still visible—Lavallee includes gold and copper leaf details in her captivating portraits of birds and woodland creatures.
From barn owls and quails to pigeons and crows, Lavallee has illustrated an impressive variety of birds. Each artwork is crafted on a wooden panel adorned with geometric shapes of metal leaf, which she subsequently paints over to enhance depth. Her feathered subjects are meticulously portrayed with layers of fine brushstrokes, creating a rich texture that resembles actual plumage.
While birds are the central focus, Lavallee has recently expanded her repertoire to include woodland mammals, producing portraits of foxes, hares, squirrels, and mice in her unique style. Frequently, she pairs two animals together—a mammal and a bird, a pair of mammals, or a bird alongside an insect—illustrating the interconnected biodiversity of the woodland.
Lavallee’s breathtaking, nature-themed artwork was recently showcased at The Other Art Fair in Los Angeles, marking her as one of the prominent artists. We had the opportunity to connect with her for a deeper exploration of her artistic practice. Continue reading for My Modern Met’s exclusive interview.
When and how did your journey into painting begin?
As a child, I loved painting; it was a delightful way to express my thoughts. My mother enrolled me in a community class, during which we even held an exhibition! I felt disheartened when one of my paintings received a red dot, believing I had completely failed! However, my tears of sadness quickly turned into joy once I understood the significance of the red dot.
In what ways did your experience at the Sylvia Araya Painting Academy influence your perspective on art today?
While a high school student in Quebec City, I sought comfort in the painting lessons at Sylvia Araya’s Painting Academy during the evenings. It provided a refuge amidst a tumultuous period.
She encouraged me to look beyond appearances, to perceive the intricate layers of color and light in my surroundings. Silvia was an elegant, exotic, internationally celebrated artist and a nurturing mentor. She introduced me to colors I had never envisioned. Living in a landscape primarily blanketed in white for most of the year, her colors stood in stark contrast to my environment. Her assistants had trained at L’Ecole Des Beaux Arts in France and were a constant source of inspiration. It was my joyful space.
Her teachings resonate within me as I begin to mix colors. My home studio is my current happy place.
What attracts you to birds and woodland creatures as your main subjects?
Birds capture my heart; I’m fascinated by their vivid colors and distinct textures. They possess a charming goofiness and abundant personality.
I mainly work with a fine rigger paintbrush and relish layering colors with delicate strokes to cultivate rich textures.
As a child, I was enchanted by the swallows and chipmunks frequenting our cottage. The Barn Swallows would swoop towards us if we got too close to their nests, and I was entranced by how their feathers sparkled in the sunlight. Making eye contact with these incredible beings felt magical. Currently, I aim to capture that unique moment when an animal and an observer acknowledge one another.
Do you study these animals in the wild, rely on photographs, or create them from your imagination?
Residing in a highly urban environment, I mainly depend on photographic references. I conduct extensive online research and then combine various reference elements, such as the beak of one crow, the feet of another, and the body position of yet another, to craft the crow I envision.
Of late, I’ve been incorporating playful, whimsical touches to the feather details on my birds, adding a dimension to the artwork that I find truly captivating.
Is there a specific type of animal or creature to which you feel a strong connection?
I particularly love painting California quails and roadrunners. Upon moving to our home in Southern California, a flock of California Quails appeared in our backyard, and I was instantly charmed! Their adorable little head feathers bobbing as they meander around are delightful.
Roadrunners often dash past me as I explore trails near my home, and I find them utterly enchanting.
Yet, my favorite bird is undoubtedly the barn owl. I feel a bond with their serene, observant demeanor, exceptional camouflage, and how elusive they are during daylight.
Your artwork combines intricately detailed animals with bold, graphic shapes. What inspired that juxtaposition?
Discovering my