When I look at the work of Lydia Baker, I see intimacy, spirituality, divine symmetry, and deep human connection. Through painting with oils and drawing with wax pastels, the artist renders figures that almost glow, with bodies that intertwine in a way that is deeply sensual. In her recent solo show “Sonnet” at Massey Klein Gallery, these figures appear as if they are on another plane of reality, as if their psyches have connected in another life. Through these two female protagonists, Baker explores time, memory, and desire—a romance and experience that reflects her own.
Subtle yet striking, the fourteen pieces in the show “Sonnet” draw you in while their hazy palettes and soft gradients radiate outward, holding you in space and time. Originally from Norfolk, Virginia and currently living in Brooklyn, Baker shares with us how she achieves her “glow” affect, how her current relationships influence her artwork, and the importance her artist community has had on her dive to keep going." with the following sentence: "Originally from Norfolk, Virginia and currently living in Brooklyn, Baker shares with us how she achieves her “glow” affect, how her current relationships influence her artwork, and the importance her artist community has had on her drive to keep going.
Read full interview in PDF
