Lara Lancaster (née Mackenzie Lee) is an artist and illustrator based between London and Sydney. Her work is defined by her intuitive process, which she uses to interpret and convey the energetic nature of her subjects, with a particular emphasis on the human mind and figure. Through her considered abstraction of colours and shapes, Lara has developed a distinctly contemporary style.
 
While studying Fashion Communication & Promotion at Central Saint Martins (London, 2016), Lara began to experiment with the layering of interdisciplinary mediums such as pencil, acrylic paint, oil pastels, and tracing paper, exploring the potential of mark-making. It was during this time that she was commissioned by a fellow Central Saint Martins Fashion Graduate to create a series of drawings for their collection inspired by contemporary dance. As she observed the bodies and fabric intertwining, new silhouettes emerged, which became the catalyst for Lara’s artistic interpretation. Movement is now the defining feature of her authentic style.
 
Taking inspiration from nature’s organic forms, Lara uses fluid paint to convey the lyrical nature of her subjects, while bold paper cut-outs and strong pastel outlines are applied to the composition to represent the physicality of her subjects. Charcoal and pencil are then utilized to convey the ephemerality of emotions and the complexity of the conscious mind.
 
Lara has made significant contributions to Nick Knight’s SHOWstudio and art gallery Gray M.C.A, where she has collaborated on various international commissions and exhibitions. Her work extends to private and commercial projects, including events and textiles.
 

For enquiries regarding commissions or project collaborations, please email:
studio@laralancaster.com