Testing the boundaries

Mildura-based visual artist and student Loughie Kemp creates bold, visceral artworks that test the boundaries of both style and medium. The 19-year-old has already had his work exhibited and recently took home La Trobe University’s Individual Artist Prize. He chats with Teagan Bell about his artistic process, where it all started and what’s next. Picture: Ben Gross

Did you always want to be an artist? How did your creative journey begin?

One of my earliest memories was telling my mother that when I grow up I wanted to be an artist, so the interest and passion has just been a natural process. I started to actualise the potential in Year 12 when I started meeting other local artists and getting involved in the arts scene. Now being an artist is the only thing I want to be.

I think my style is colourful, harsh, bold and unpredictable. I tend to juxtapose different subject matters and mediums. I like my work to have lots of contrast and jarring visuals, yet still be fun.

What’s the first thing you remember making?

Woah! I have so many answers to that question. I think the first piece I remember making that got attention was a painting of Bloody Mary I did in grade three. My art teacher pulled me aside and said it wasn’t appropriate, and that the work was embarrassing.

What inspires you?

I’m inspired by so many things! I feel most inspired when I’m in an interesting environment like night clubs, public transport, art galleries, or by the river. The environment I’m in allows me to soak random imagery and sensations like a sponge, where I can eventually try translating that into my art. Something I find that inspires me heavily is the 80s. I love the films, music, art movements and overall aesthetic surrounding that decade.

Why did you start dabbling in photography, videography, collages and painting?

I started experimenting with these mediums because the idea of dedicating myself to one art medium makes me uncomfortable. I love to experiment and converge mediums together, so I can see how far I can push my work, and to keep it interesting. An idea or concept for a piece will be developed, and the medium is the last thing I worry about. I’m more focused on the most successful way to get my message across. I’d love to try experimenting with music and film.

What are the intentions of your artwork – what do you want them to communicate?

Right now my work serves as a form of catharsis; I make art to gain reflection and understanding of how I feel. Some of my work is an act of manifesting ideas to become reality. I want my work to channel feelings we all know, but don’t know how to describe.

What are you working on right now?

Currently I’m working on a few commission pieces and projects for uni. I’ve also been experimenting with music production lately.

What was it like seeing your work in an exhibition?

Seeing my work in the MIND SPLATTER exhibition was awesome. After conceptualising the exhibition and making works all year, to see the art all curated in the gallery was a new step in my career that I’m very proud of.

How do you think your art reflects life?

Well, because my art is based upon self expression my art solely reflects my life. Everything I experience in my life, somehow translates into my work. It’s a natural instinct for me to do so.

What does the future look like for you and your work?

I’m planning on moving to Melbourne next year to study, so my future for me is to continue learning and experimenting with my practices, and to exhibit in more galleries and to gain more recognition.