Meet Lenina Olivas

Today we’d like to introduce you to Lenina Olivas.

Lenina, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I’ve been in the world of art for a little over seven years. I started as the model for the artists and photographers for the first three years. When I decided to get behind the easel, pick up the brush and pick an instructor I had made so many connections with the artists it was easy to decide who I would study under. Not only did I get to know the artist’s work but their personalities as well.

My classical still life and portrait paintings are very traditional. I think art should be enjoyed over a glass of wine by the fire and my art definitely reflects that. My work is in the style of the old Dutch masters and has an old-world feel. My next venture will be of the American Cowboy and the West.

My other passion is exploring myself and the female form. I explored painting abstracts with my breasts. Once I decided on the color scheme of my palate I slathered my breasts in paint & began to paint. Each breast is dipped in the color of choice & depending on the detail that is involved determines the temperature of the studio.

Since acrylic paint dries so quickly I always go for a run or do yoga before I paint. The reason for this is the moisture on my breast helps to keep the paint wet longer so it’s easier to manipulate. Painting in acrylic with my breast in more of a free flow and doesn’t require any instruction, measurements, set up, or lights.

Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
No, it hasn’t been smooth sailing all along the way. I wasn’t born an artist, painting came to me later in life so the first few years, my friends and family didn’t believe that I was the person who was actually creating these works of art. I was often asked if I did sip and paint, paint by numbers, or if I was photographing someone else’s work.

The work-life balance thing… I’ve had to adjust my lifestyle. After a 40+ hour week, I’m simply not in the mood to create. My brain and body need downtime and equal attention so I can be my best. When I’m constantly giving to others and taking care of others, it’s difficult to make time for myself and my art suffers.

We’d love to hear more about your art.
I paint classical still life and specialize in wine-themed art. I’ve reproduced my art on wearable items and merchandise. I will be branching out and teaching small group classes on painting abstracts with their breast. The process is very empowering and not very many people can say they create artwork with their bodies.

The thing that sets me apart from other artists is my bravato and style. My style is very classical and old world. I love the rich colors and deep contrast of the Old Dutch Masters. My abstracts are bold and vibrant. Plus, they are a bit on the risky side.

Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
My ability to be uncomfortable, take risk, and my ability to keep moving forward.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.leninaolivasfineart.com
• Phone: 970-980-6168
• Email: lenina.olivas@leninaolivasfineart.com
• Instagram: Lenina_Olivas_Fine_Art
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/leninaolivasfineart
• Other: www.independencegallery.com/lenina-olivas

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