LOLA STANTON

ARTIST STATEMENT:

In my LGBTQ+ figurative series, I navigate the intersection of art, culture, and LGBTQ+ identity.  Meticulous attention to every detail invites viewers into nuanced narratives, prompting engagement beyond conventional boundaries. The portraits celebrate the LGBTQ+ community with archetypal significance, standing as a testament to my love for a frequently marginalized group.

As a mother to a queer son, I recognize the urgency of sharing stories beyond societal preconceptions. Representational accuracy precedes the inclusion of personalized elements, encouraging authentic expressions. The resulting works beckon observers to construct their own narratives, transcending the boundaries of conventional artistic representation.

Adopting a representational approach, I capture the essence of my subjects through accurate likenesses before delving into the incorporation of personalized elements. Encouraging authenticity, my subjects dressed in their chosen attire and struck unique poses, expressing their personalities with unbridled honesty. Engaging in a collaborative process, I share the progress of each painting with my subjects, ensuring a respectful representation of their individuality.

In my pursuit of diverse subjects, I champion inclusivity, extending invitations to individuals from all walks of life. The resulting collection showcases a group of men and women who exude self-assurance, willingly presenting themselves to both their peers and the public. I trust that my portraits contribute to the celebration of the vast spectrum of the LGBTQ+ community, honoring and validating their diverse personalities.

BIO

Lola Sandino Stanton is originally from Bluefields, Nicaragua.  She attended college in the US through a scholarship from the Institute of International Education. After graduating from college, she worked as a photographer and for most of her working life she wrote, photographed and produced educational materials.  In 1997 she received her master’s degree in Art Education from the City College of New York. 

After retirement from teaching art in the Bronx public schools, Lola studied at The Art Students League of NY with Cornelia Foss and became a full-time painter. In 2013 she was accepted as a member of the National Association of Women Artists (NAWA) and started exhibiting with them. In 2017 she had her first solo show at The Interchurch Center in NY City with an exhibition of portraits of Latino Youth.  Lola [LS1] has also exhibited with Taller Boricua, The Salmagundi Club, The Hudson Guild Gallery and Hunter East Harlem Gallery among others.

Lola favors portraiture in oils. While she is painting a face, she is one with the person, and there is an exhilaration that comes from attaining the details needed to capture the likeness and character of the person. Lola is in the process of painting a new series of portraits of LGBTQ people. She hopes to have a second solo show soon.

Lola has received several awards exhibiting with NAWA, including First Prize at a group show at the Monmouth Museum in March 2022. Other awards include The Nawa Medal of Honor in 2014 and 2016, the Elizabeth Stanton Blake Memorial Award in 2015 and the Solveig Stromsoe Palmer award in 2021 for Portrait in Oil.