Meet Lisa Sanchez | Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Lisa Sanchez and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Lisa, why did you pursue a creative career?
After graduating from CU Boulder with a degree in psychology I worked a “real job” for about 12 months and quickly learned that I was not cut out for a 9-5 job. My mind is always moving and leans towards the creative. I had a conversation with my mom, a career woman and creative and she suggested we try selling our art. My earliest memories are of a dining table covered with art supplies and spending weekends creating with my mom. After college and that first job we decided to try an art show. We showed up with a folding table, a table cloth, and the small hand-sewn dolls and earrings we created. By noon we had sold out and made $75. I remember packing up our table thinking, I can make this work.
Now, 20 years later, I can’t imagine doing anything else. It’s been exciting to see my art evolve from dolls and jewelry to what it’s become today. I love seeing the evolution and look forward to what shows up in the next 20 years.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I use upcycled wood, usually collected from the houses my family flips. Found objects on my walks and materials from Arts Parts Creative Reuse Center in Boulder, CO. I also love scouring garage sales for art supplies.

As I prepare each piece, I write an intention on it and then paint over it. I’m the only person that knows what it says, but I believe the viewer can feel that intention. After the base coat, I apply layers of acrylic paint using putty knives, plastic hotel key cards, business cards, or anything else within reach in my studio. After the layers are dry, I silkscreen words and phrases I’ve collected over the years. I always have a stack of books and a notebook and find words and phrases that I make my own and add to the art.

I believe everyone should be able to buy original art, so all of my art is original. I sell itty-bitty’s for $18, and the price goes up based on the size. I also do commission work so my clients can select colors, sizes, and words for their art.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I’d take them to Winter Park, CO. This is my happy place. I love walking and riding along the river that runs through town. We’d hike in the morning and the afternoon and stop at Idlewild Spirits Brewpub. This distillery makes all of their mixers and most of their spirits in-house. The staff is welcoming, and the space is cozy. After our day in Winter Park, we’d head to Denver for Milk. I love drinking fresh milk, but I love to dance at a small club in Denver that spins 80’s dance tracks all night. Unfortunately, they open at 9p, and that’s my bedtime, so I don’t go as often as I’d like. But, if I had a friend in town, I’d rally for them.
We’d head out to Bella Luna Gallery on 20th and Downing in Denver on Sunday morning. This little gallery shows the art of local emerging artists and a tarot card reader. Additionally, it is a magical place. I always find something there, from candles to crystals to original cut-paper art by my friend Lia Nelson.
After Bella, we’d head to the rooftop of Odell’s Brewery near Sloan Lake for a cold beverage and views of the front range.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Shoutout to my mom for lighting the creative spark, whose constructive criticism pushed me to try new things and expand my art business. Shoutout to my boys, Parker and Brady. These two are the reason I’m an artist. From the time they were toddlers playing in my studio while I worked to the years, they helped fill the truck, set up for a show, and tear down afterward. They don’t have my art in their dorm rooms, but I know it’s painted on their hearts.
My friend Jane Kenner-Smith is a no-nonsense badass artist. She took me under her art wing and encouraged/pushed me to do my first art show out of Colorado. Who knew people in other states would want to buy my art? She did, and it changed my life.
My boyfriend, Patrick – @artshowroadie on Instagram. Set up, tear down, writing, drinks, chef, co-pilot, dance partner. I couldn’t make up a better partner.

Website: lisadiamor.com

Instagram: @lisadiamor

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063979323091

Image Credits
Patrick Fitzpatrick Lisa Sanchez