Zanna Cromack is the driving force behind Leighton Buzzard Art Society’s annual exhibition, which goes from strength to strength each year. She chatted to us recently about her work.
How long have you been making art? How did you get into it?
I’ve always drawn and made things, I did a textile degree and then it’s been a lifetime of making stuff. At the moment I am exploring work in several media… printmaking and oil paint are recent developments, but graphite, pen and ink, watercolour and textiles are long standing media for me.
Which subjects interest you? How do you approach your work?
I’m interested in the world around us, still life, landscape and interpretations of it, also storytelling. Drawing is often the start of an idea, an observation of a shape, colour, the light, then it varies – it can take a long while to develop as an image, exploring media as the idea develops. But then again, ideas can appear almost fully formed – then the hard work is to realise it! I often work in series, allowing development along several routes, refining ideas and technique on the way. Materials can kick start a process too – especially textiles.
Which artists do you admire?
Tricky question! A recent discovery is Mary Newcomb, also Kurt Jackson. Then there’s Kenjouac, Dior, Bourgeois, Hodgkins, Rego, Cornelia Parker, Joan Eardley, David Nash… that’s today’s list anyway.
What’s your proudest achievement?
When the idea in my head translates into a physical piece. It doesn’t happen very often!
Why did you join Leighton Buzzard Art Society?
People that make interesting things are often interesting people.
Where do you usually work?
Sometimes in our studio space, sometimes the kitchen table but also outside. I do listen to music and audio books/podcasts while I’m working, but sometimes it has to be silence.
What are you working on at the moment?
Some still lives, and I’m also learning to use Procreate. Developing my work in oils is another goal for me.
Do you have a handy hint / top tip / hack to share?
Sketchbooks! They’re the only way I can keep track of the ideas that run through my head… Plus looking at art, especially art that is very different to my own, is always valuable.
Do you have a favourite paint colour?
Paynes Grey.
If the National Gallery was on fire and you could save just one painting there, which one would it be?
That is really mean! Probably Cranach’s Cupid complaining to Venus – but then I’d have to leave Rousseau’s Tiger…
You can see Zanna’s work at our LBAS exhibitions – and she is resolving to put it out on other routes soon too – watch this space!