Introducing this lady as just an amazing artist would be an understatement. I’ve had the incredulous opportunity to watch her development as an artist for almost a decade, while building a lovely friendship. Lolita Develay is unique in her own rights and sees the world through such a pleasing and curious scope that one almost feels free and interesting to be in her presence. It’s like magic when she produces her works. Like a special genetic ability to grasp light and dark, contrast and color and all the other elements that make art interesting and special. Here’s an interview and some of her works. Enjoy.
With a mix of Latino, African American, Aztec, German, and an array of South American heritage, makes for an incredible gene pool of inspiration.

Why was it your desire to become an artist?
It really was never a conscious desire. I think it is part of the human condition to contemplate existence and further, to engage in mark making as a means of expressing those thoughts.

How old were you when you first started to paint?
The first painting I did was in high school.

What was your first painting of and how did you feel about it?
That first painting was of a tiger, and I made it for my Mom. It was pretty fierce and colorful. I loved it, and Moms always like their kids work.

What inspires you as an artist?
Existential angst is what drives me. Contemplating the social values of the world in which I live.

Window Shopping series “Let Them Eat Cake” watercolor on paper- Lolita Develay

Who inspires you?
Lots of people inspire me, right now I am motivated by my Nieces and Nephews.

Who are a few of your favorite artists of the past and present?
I like Rosenquist’s Gift Wrapped Doll’s series and Marilyn Minter’s Green Pink Caviar series.

Do you like pie and what kind?
I do like pie…I love fresh strawberry pies, peach cobbler, and boysenberry pie…yummo!!!

Living Dolls series- Artist Lolita Develay

Do you do anything special to get in the mood to paint? Music? silence? Tv? Meditate? Etc…
I have a playlist of about 3000 songs I listen to, when those bore me I switch to stuff on you tube. And, Coffee…..lots of coffee

What are the challenges to being an artist?
Time, mostly time. I don’t have enough time to do all of the things I can think of doing, so I only focus on painting. I wish there were more of me.

Have there been any controversial issues you’ve had and how did you face them or how would you face them?
I have had my work misunderstood as being anti-affluence and anti-cosmetic surgery and an offer to exhibit was retracted as a result.

Window Shopping series-“Secrets To Tell” oil on canvas, Lolita Develay 2010

What advice would you give to an aspiring painter? Or anyone really seeking to find resolve through their own creative means? Create, just make things, whatever it is you make, just make it.

What’s a fun fact about you that most people don’t know? oddities? other special talents?
I don’t like playing in a pool, however, I absolutely love to do laps….I don’t get enough swim time in my life. My girlfriend and I have matching rosebud tattoos on our hips. 🙂

How do you think art has transformed your life?
Pursuing my passion has led to my ultimate goal of happiness.

Living Doll Series-“Annette” oil on canvas, Lolita Develay

If you would like to see more of or purchase Lolita’s work, feel free to visit her website:

http://lolitadevelay.com/index.html