Breaking the art ceiling with rising star, Layla Andrews
The art world has become elitist—that’s no secret. What is a secret is how to gain entry if you’re on the outside looking in. How then did Layla Andrews, who describes feeling like an outsider as “a 25-year-old, working class, bi-racial woman, brought up by a single mum”, wind up with a fan base that included the likes of President Obama? We caught up with Layla in her Brixton studio to talk all things colour, her love of second-hand, and creating a sense of community within the art-world, thanks to social media.
How do you choose the subjects of your paintings? And if you could have anyone sit for you—who would it be?
Hmm, perhaps this sounds like a cliché answer but it really depends on how I am feeling. The subject of my paintings change, sometimes I take inspiration from family stories, sometimes its politics, second hand treasure, the natural world etc. That said, I would love to meet and paint James Baldwin, he has been a huge source of inspiration for a long time—it would be an honour. Or Elvis! For obvious reasons.
With admirers including Obama and Stephen Fry, how did you get to where you are now? What was that journey for you and what obstacles did you overcome?
I started painting young. I was incredibly fortunate that after approaching the South African Embassy regarding a painting I did at school of Nelson Mandela they immediately wanted it and the work received a fair amount of attention. I think this definitely helped lay the platform of confidence I needed to start finding my feet in the art world.
“Confidence is incredibly important. You must like what you paint, you must think ‘hey, this is good art\n’”
LAYLA ANDREWS
I’d say resources and opportunity are two of the biggest obstacles when trying to make your way into this strange industry. Art is of course naturally subjective, however, the industry remains in many ways incredibly elitist and superficial, stifling the discovery of ‘good’ art. Navigating it on your own can be very frustrating and it can be hard not to take the knocks personally. I would say confidence is incredibly important. You must like what you paint, you must think ‘hey, this is good art’.
You’re currently the ‘Artist in residence’ at Brixton Village. What’re your top recommendations? From food to coffee to music and art?
You are spoilt for choice in Brixton village and Market Row for eating options I would say take time to walk through and explore. A few of my favourite spots would have to be Kaosan, the wine bar attached to Salon, and Restaurant Santafereno. Music-wise, look out for Oscar at SuperCute. He is always playing brilliant tunes. Plus DJ duo Cyndi and Chris who run Brixton Village Lates; they put on lively (and free!) weekly music events.
What would your advice be to a young artist struggling to get their foot in the door?
Firstly, I’d suggest making sure you have a body of work that you love. It really helps to feel proud and happy with your own work. I would then use social media platforms to start building a following. Social media can have its obvious shortcomings, but today, a lot of collectors, journalists, and galleries spot artists on there, and of course, it’s free. Utilise social media to reach out to other artists and start collaborating—community within the art world really helps.
Which artists inspire you the most? And from where else do you get your inspiration?
Frieda Kahlo is definitely up there. I visited her home in Mexico City with a friend and it blew my mind. Her use of colour is beautiful, I particularly adored her sculptural pieces. I also love the illustrations of Ralph Steadman, his political commentary combined with stunningly, often grotesque, imagery is genius.
Your style is quite abstract with a liberal use of colour, what is your relationship with colour?
Colour is so important to my work. Certain colour combinations make recurring appearances in paintings. My go-to colours are olive greens, burnt oranges, peaches, whites, blacks and mustards.
We’re so on board with you on your appreciation for second-hand. You mentioned it influences your work. How so?
I never get bored of rummaging around for interesting items. From carboots, to recycling centres, and antique shops I have been collecting pieces since I was a child so now I find myself surrounded by strange, miscellaneous objects both at home and in the studio. I feel like all this wondrous clutter naturally works itself into my artwork. In another life, I would have liked to be a prop dealer!
Most treasured car boot sale find?
Most things I own are car boot finds so that’s a difficult one! Probably my cowboy boots. Except for one pair bought from a shop in Columbus, Ohio, all my cowboy boots are second-hand. I wear those every day not only because they are the most comfortable shoes but also because they make me feel fabulous!
You picked Red 01 to repaint your studio. What made you go for that one?
I originally painted the studio in Yellow 02 (which I loved) and then added the Red 01 wall. They both bring so much vibrancy and texture to the room without it being too bright or overbearing. It feels like a very happy and inspiring space to paint in now. So, thank you Lick!
Oh, and it’d be rude not to. If you had to pick just one, what would your favourite Lick paint colour be?
Probably Yellow 02. On grey, gloomy days in London it makes such a difference.
If you want to find out more about where you can buy Layla’s artwork, take a look at her
for information on her upcoming exhibitions, including the Soho Revue in April ‘22. She’ll be taking over Brixton Village for International Women’s Day from 8th March with some larger than life sculptures. Give her a follow for the latest updates website @laylaandrews.