A brief interview with 2016 Open Studio Tour artist: Lania D’Agostino
Artwork by Lania D’Agostino
Can you tell us a little bit about the work that you do in your studio?
I do figurative sculpture, some are from live models others are smaller figures sculpt in clay and cast in resin. I have a studio just for painting that is overflowing with figurative paintings in bright colors. I use mostly oil paint and charcoal.
Artwork by Lania D’Agostino
What drew you to the medium(s) that you are currently working with?
I have been sculpting and casting figures for the museum industry for over 20 years so I am well versed in the figure. Some of the sculptures I do now use the same materials and techniques that I’ve learned in my business. The direction that I’ve been going with these sculptures are based on social issues such as transgender and gender variance awareness, homelessness and Black Lives Matter.
With the sculptures I need to have the direction and intent of the work first but with the paintings they are a direct painting process that is more of a spiritual journey. I usually learn their stories after they are finished.
With the sculptures I need to have the direction and intent of the work first but with the paintings they are a direct painting process that is more of a spiritual journey. I usually learn their stories after they are finished.
Artwork by Lania D’Agostino
What is something that you think is unique about your studio or practice?
I have a great space that has so many things going on it can be overwhelming for the first time visitor.
On one end there is the sculpting studio where I do my large sculptures and life casts. This is also where we build the figures for the museum industry and all the Star Wars mannequins. This area has casts of body parts, molds and tools.
There is the inventory area that has many life size sculptures stored along with a large collection of mannequins (which are used for my business). There are many unusual and vintage mannequins which are just a bad habit.
At the other end I have a spacious painting studio that is overflowing with paintings and small sculptures. My painting area reveals my process with years and years of stories on the walls.
For anyone planning a visit to my studio they will want to bring a camera and know it will probably not be a quick stop.
On one end there is the sculpting studio where I do my large sculptures and life casts. This is also where we build the figures for the museum industry and all the Star Wars mannequins. This area has casts of body parts, molds and tools.
There is the inventory area that has many life size sculptures stored along with a large collection of mannequins (which are used for my business). There are many unusual and vintage mannequins which are just a bad habit.
At the other end I have a spacious painting studio that is overflowing with paintings and small sculptures. My painting area reveals my process with years and years of stories on the walls.
For anyone planning a visit to my studio they will want to bring a camera and know it will probably not be a quick stop.
“Knowing” show at gallery
Artwork by Lania D’Agostino
What is one thing you love about being an artist in Baltimore?
I love Baltimore. I chose it for my home many years ago and am more excited about the growing artist community every year. It’s a rich city to live and work in.
What are you most excited about for this year’s Open Studio Tour?
I’m excited this year to open my studio because I have a lot of new work that has not been shown in any gallery. It’s a great opportunity to be able to show people my studio and reveal my process. I always enjoy the conversations I have with the folks that visit.
Artwork by Lania D’Agostino