Lora Zombie is a force of nature. Her signature grunge aesthetic, bright colors and penchant for unicorns culminate in effervescent works that both delight and challenge contemporary perspectives of society and the world.
The self-taught artist (born in 1990 Voronezh, Russia) burst into the urban art scene through fan art forums, social media and artistic platform, DeviantArt, in the late 2000s. Intrigued by the interaction between music and art, as well as nature, cartoons, and the creative talent behind famed band Gorillaz, Jamie Hewlett and The Zombie Flesh Eaters (the inspiration behind her surname, her true identity being top secret), Lora describes her creative process as a chaotic energy akin to being surrounded by music.
Ever-creative, Lora works closely with Eyes On Walls and is constantly involved in different collaborations (Lollapalooza Berlin, Urban Nation, Warner Bros and Blackmilk Clothing to name a few) while working on limited edition pieces for her own brand, Hero Time which launched in July, 2015. In a world of Brexit and the Trump-ocalypse, Lora is a well-needed breath of fresh air, with a splash of unicorns for good measure.
We spoke to Lora about her upcoming London show (12 November, 2016), True Colors, which will exhibit 50+ new paintings and is free to attend – a testament to her desire that her work remain accessible and available to everyone.
In a world of Brexit and the Trump-ocalypse, Lora is a well-needed breath of fresh air, with a splash of unicorns for good measure.
Bold, whimsical colors are a theme in your art, why did you decide to name this particular show True Colors?
Everybody shows their true color, whether it is infinite kindness or all consuming ego, that is what the world is about today. These colors come from within us.
Which piece in True Colors most represents your inspiration right now?
“Fragile World” and “Easy Mind Floating Soul.” I feel so free and happy but I know how fragile the world is, I need to look after it.
What is the one thing in your studio that you cannot live without?
Pencil 0.7mm
If you could paint with just three colors (without mixing to make new ones) for the rest of your life, which three would you pick and why?
White, baby blue and pink. They make everything feel like cotton candy.
What does the color blue mean to you?
I just love it.
How many hours per week do you spend painting?
I am constantly painting or creating inside my head. When I travel, I draw in a sketchbook.
Why do you paint unicorns?
I love them. That’s the main reason I do anything. I love it.
Why the pill motif?
More vitamins. 🙂
What is the biggest disaster that has happened in your life and how did you overcome it?
No disasters in my life. I thank the universe for this, and for the tests and experience it gives me.
What do you love most in the world?
Nature
True Colors attendees will have the opportunity to meet Lora and purchase her limited edition prints with gift bags, free with any purchase, going to the first to arrive. In the days following her exhibition, Lora will be turning the streets of London awash with her bubbly painting in the days following her exhibition. Keep an eye on her Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for details.
True Colors details
Saturday 12th November, 7-10pm; @ Arch 6, Crucifix Lane, London Bridge, SE1 3JW. Free entry.
Any remaining limited edition prints will be available to purchase at Eyesonwalls.com once the show has concluded.
All images used are courtesy of Lora Zombie
