Lisa Albinger Answers the YabYum Seven

photos provided by Lisa Albinger

1. Who are you and what do you do?

I am a mixed-media painter, a visionary, a Grey Gardens fan, the mother to a super calm long haired chihuahua mix who thinks he’s a cat/human. Picking him up off the street changed my life. My current work touches on the human body, health, maps and sexuality. I’m taking a road trip through my body, acknowledging it’s pains, the scoliosis, my mind, and exploring the connection of sexuality and the physical body in today’s society. Feminism is a theme that has surfaced in my realm and I’m beginning to speak about that in my work.

2. How did you get your start?

With crayons in a round cookie tin my Grandmother kept in the kitchen closet. I knew when I was 5 that I wanted to be an artist as an adult. In first grade I cried at recess because I was afraid of the wind and a group of 4th grade boys would make fun of me, calling me Windy. This was in Catholic school. One day I drew E.T. and they saw I could draw much better than them. They never bothered me again. It was probably then I knew I had some kind of art talent.

“Birds of a Feather”

3. What inspires you?

The philosophy and art of Frank Lloyd Wright, the work of Woody Allen, and the constant desire to create. Every moment is a conscious moment of creation; the way I hold myself when I walk, my voice and the words I use, the way I hold utensils… I can always be better. Life inspires me. Life is art.

4. What do you like about AZ?

I’ve met some of the most amazing, kindhearted people in Arizona. I enjoy the desert landscape and the neurotic little lizards that scamper in front of my feet. I’m not a fan of snow after growing up in it in Wisconsin, so that’s the main reason I’m here.

“Dearly Beloved”

5. Where can we see you(r) work?

On my website, lisaalbinger.com. I have work in the Mesa Contemporary Arts Museum permanent collection. Right now I have work at R. Pela Gallery.

6. What would you like to accomplish before you die?

Live in a Frank Lloyd Wright home. Do work for Burberry, Prada, Kate Spade, and Louis Vuitton. Have my work in movies by Woody Allen and Louis CK. Basically I want to create with and for those who have inspired me. I want to give back.

7. What is your mantra?

Universe, help me help you.