I first met and interviewed Lily Luciole back in 2014 when she came to NYC to share her distinct vision on our streets . Active throughout the globe, but particularly in Montreal and Paris, Lily fashions alluring mixed media images — largely inspired by her African heritage and her quest to reclaim her identity. The artist was back here this past month for a brief visit, and we had a chance to catch up a bit.
The last time we met up you were living in Montreal. Where are you based these days?
I now consider Paris my home.
What motivated you to return to Paris?
My mother is not in good health. She needs my support, and I want to look after her. I, also, feel that seeing new art in a different setting inspires me and stimulates my creativity.
How has your vision changed or evolved within the past few years?
While living in Montreal, my main focus had been street art. But my most recent project, Sortir Les Femmes De L’Ombre (Taking Women Out of the Shadows), engages women in a range of artistic ventures from the visual arts to dance to poetry. Ten women are currently involved, and plans are now underway for a performance and discussion as to the particular challenges faced by Muslim women in the arts.
How would you, then, define the mission of Sortir Les Femmes De L’Ombre?
Its mission is to give underrepresented women opportunities to share their talent, as well as to discover other talented women out there.
What about your own art? In what ways may that have evolved?
My technique is more complex and time-consuming, as I incorporate more embroidery. But it always centers on the representation of women.
What’s ahead?
Raising more funds to further develop Sortir Les Femmes De L’Ombre and working on my own project. I’m, also, interested in becoming involved in exhibitions and events in the northern French city, Lille.
It sounds great. Be sure to keep us posted!
Interview conducted and edited by Lois Stavsky
Photo credits: 1-3, Ana Candelaria; 4 Hervé Sarrazin
