Wir freuten uns sehr über das Gespräch mit dem Chefmädchen und Künstler Lâle, die kürzlich unseren ansässigen Hund Teddy Maximus zu einer Pfotenfotze gemacht hat. Als Hundebesitzer von Cockapoo Siyah hat Lâle ein besonderes Talent, die wahre Essenz eines Hundes zu erfassen.

Nachdem er sich am Chelsea College of Art and Design auf bedruckte Textilien spezialisiert hatte, entwarf Lâle zwei Jahre lang Wohnwelten bei Conran, bevor er als freiberuflicher Designer und Künstler in London arbeitete. Wir haben sie eingeholt, damit du ein wenig mehr über die Dame hinter dem Bleistift erfahren kannst.....

H: Lâle, your pencil drawings are exquisite, where did your love of art/drawing come from?

L: I’ve always loved drawing, It has always been something I did- from an early age I remember my mum sitting me down with a huge basket of pencils which kept me happy for hours…

H: So clearly, it’s always been in you, but if you weren’t an artist, what do you think you would be?

L: Interestingly, I’ve always been intrigued by science & the brain – so I was tempted to study Biology – but I realized last minute (the day I got my A level results!) that I needed to do art and to be creative. When I’m not being creative it makes me sad – it is important for me to do it as it makes me happy.

H: So how did you come to choose the medium of pencil for your art?

L: Pencil is so easy to use. I love that I can just sit down at my desk and start drawing – it’s me, some beautiful paper and a pencil. With these simple materials, I hope to capture the detail of animals and the beauty of nature.

H: We just love the way that you captured Teddy, what do you love about drawing dogs?

L: I love bringing to life their personality and unique character in a way that their owner recognizes the drawing as their dog. The best part of doing bespoke commissions, whether it’s their home, a plant they love or their dog, is seeing people’s reaction when they first open their drawing, and the messages I get afterwards – it’s the best feeling. I love hearing how pleased people are.

H: The true likeness and personality in your bespoke commissions clearly shines through, how to do bring to life the character of an animal so well?

L: I always ask for a minimum of three photos (5 is ideal) before I start drawing. This way I can see the dog from lots of angles. When I did Teddy I studied his little paws, fluffy ears and unique features across several of the photos you provided and brought them all together.

H: When you aren’t drawing, what do you like to do in your downtime?

L: We love a walk in Battersea Park with Siyah and a trip to the Pear Tree Café afterwards for their fresh yummy food! It is very dog friendly there and has a lovely casual atmosphere. 

Quick fire:

Fav artist: Kandinsky

Downtime is…walking Siyah

Favourite city: London/Lisbon

Your perfect dinner guest: My Husband

Dream holiday: Yoga – either near a beach or in the mountains

Fav food/restaurant: Vegetarian, Spring at Somerset House in London

Biggest extravagance: Quality materials and dog food!

Favourite book: Picture Books J and Any Human Heart by William Boyd

 Fav flower: Tuilps (my name in Turkish means Tulip)

 Thank you so much Lâle – it’s been such a pleasure talking to you!

If you are interested in bespoke commissions or browsing Lâle’s prints, head to her website or send her a message on Instagram @laleguralp We can’t think of a more gorgeous surprise for your loved one this Christmas!

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