Joseph Lorusso, End of Summer, oil, 48" (121 cm)
Scottsdale Artists’ School: Can you recall the moment you realized that you wanted to be an artist?
Joseph Lorusso: From my earliest memories in grade school, around the third or fourth grade, I had a strong desire to become an artist. The initial spark came from the recognition I received for my drawing skills, particularly in creating cartoon characters and superheroes. The positive feedback and attention I received at that time fueled my determination to delve deeper into the world of drawing, pushing me to consistently refine my craft. As I continued to receive reinforcement and experience success in my artistic pursuits, my passion for drawing evolved into a lifelong endeavor. The journey of improvement became a self-sustaining cycle, where each achievement motivated me to seek further growth. Today, my passion for art remains unwavering, a testament to the enduring impact of those early moments of encouragement and the continuous journey of self-discovery through creativity.
SAS: You have received formal training in watercolor and you are self-taught in oil painting. How do these experiences differ and what was the biggest learning curve?
JL: I received formal training as a watercolor painter and illustrator in art school, with only a few classes dedicated to oil painting. After leaving art school, I took it upon myself to master the art of oil painting, investing countless hours in studying and emulating my favorite artists and heroes from art books. This self-directed approach allowed me to closely examine and understand the diverse techniques employed by great artists, providing valuable insights into the nuances of painting. Navigating between watercolor and oil painting revealed distinctive contrasts. Watercolor demanded meticulous pre-planning, working in phases and consideration of different drying stages. On the other hand, oil paint presented itself as remarkably adaptable and flexible. The freedom and expressive potential inherent in oil painting have led me to favor it as my primary medium, appreciating its versatility and the ability to convey a rich depth of emotion, detail and texture.
Joseph Lorusso, A Favorite Poem, oil, 24 x 26" (60 x 66 cm)
SAS: How did the opportunity arise to teach at Scottsdale Artists’ School?
JL: Over two decades ago, I found myself frequenting Scottsdale, Arizona, showcasing my work with a gallery that represented me. Having previously taken a class or two at the Scottsdale Artists’ School years prior, I felt a connection to the community. When the chance to teach a class presented itself, I was deeply honored and embraced the opportunity wholeheartedly. Since then, I’ve cherished every moment of sharing my knowledge, and it’s been more than 20 rewarding years. The annual return to Scottsdale for my class has become a tradition I eagerly anticipate. This city holds a special place in my heart, serving as the beginning of my career.
SAS: Tell us about your upcoming workshop.
JL: In my upcoming workshop, I will delve into the intricate process of constructing a painting within the confines of my studio. Responding to students’ inquiries about my studio practices, I decided to reshape my class, focusing specifically on unveiling my unique process. My class has now evolved to center around my approach in the studio—what I term “constructing a painting.” From the initial drawing stages to the underpainting and the vibrant transition to full color, I’ll demonstrate the various facets of my method, primarily emphasizing working from photography. We’ll also explore the effective utilization of photography, trying materials and tools to achieve specific effects. Moreover, I aim to provide valuable insights into the business aspects of being a professional artist.
Joseph Lorusso, After the Bath, oil, 24 x 18" (60 x 45 cm)
SAS: What was the biggest challenge you faced when you started your art career?
JL: Truthfully, one of the most significant hurdles I faced was navigating the business side of art. The realization dawned on me that achieving success as an artist extends beyond crafting exceptional paintings. The lack of experience in marketing and business aspects presented a considerable challenge, leading to a period of trial and error. Fortunately, over time, I secured valuable gallery representations and forged partnerships with individuals who played pivotal roles in cultivating and expanding my career. Now, with a solid foundation and a wealth of experience, I feel confident in my approach to selling my artwork. I’ve learned valuable lessons along the way, and I eagerly anticipate sharing that knowledge with students. The journey has equipped me with insights into the business intricacies of art, and I look forward to empowering others with the tools and strategies to navigate this aspect of their artistic careers.
Joseph Lorusso, Your Best Table, oil, 24 x 36" (60 x 91 cm)
SAS: Tell us about the moment you sold your first painting.
JL: I can vividly recall the milestone when I sold my first painting at a gallery, and it happened to be in Scottsdale. The Meyer Gallery, an establishment with sentimental significance, was the first to represent my work many years ago. A delightful couple, whom I’m grateful to still call friends, purchased my initial piece of two men in a café scene. To this day, whenever I visit, witnessing that artwork proudly displayed on their wall fills me with immense pleasure and satisfaction. The fact that they have continued to appreciate and enjoy the painting over the years is a source of great joy for me.
SAS: Name one takeaway you want students to gain from your instruction.
JL: Addressing a question like this presents a challenge because there are numerous aspects I wish for my students to thrive from my instructions. However, if I were to pinpoint a crucial lesson, it would be to convey that painting is a realm of limitless possibilities, emphasizing the idea that there isn’t a singular right or wrong way, nor a definitive good or bad approach. Drawing from my extensive experience as a professional painter, I’ve learned that problem-solving in art is diverse and subjective. It’s important for me to encourage students to embrace creativity, think beyond conventional boundaries and cultivate their unique perspectives. Understanding that each individual possesses a distinctive voice in their artistic expression is also something I pay attention to. My ultimate goal is to empower my students to approach painting with confidence, fostering their style and contributing something meaningful in their distinctive way. —
Visit www.scottsdaleartschool.org for more information on the school and its upcoming workshops.