Cat Spilman

How did you get into making art?

My mom is an artist so my brother and I grew up spending a lot of time in her studio. When I was little I thought she had made this fun space full of art supplies for us, but now, as a parent and artist, I realise having us in there was probably the only way she could get any work done.

Because I grew up with this as my “normal” I always considered myself an artist. It never felt like a conscious decision, it just felt like a given that I would work in the arts.

What are you currently working on?

I’m currently painting for a solo exhibition with Isabel Sullivan gallery in New York City.

What inspired you to get started on this body of work?

I moved to London from NYC, and because my mom and most of my friends still live in New York I consider it my home town. When Isabel pitched the idea of a solo show I was confronted with a range of emotions I hadn’t expected. It’s strange that places move on when you leave them, rather than politely freezing in time they way you remember them. This show is a love letter to New York City, and an exploration of how it feels to go home to a place that isn’t really home anymore.

Do you work on distinct projects or do you take a broader approach to your practice?

The last few years I’ve worked mostly on one project at a time because I’ve been lucky enough to have things scheduled in advance. I like each exhibition to feel cohesive, and it’s nice to look back at six months’ worth of work and be reminded who I was when I made it.

What’s a typical day like in your studio?

My days start with coffee, choosing music, then working on two or three pieces at a time. I rotate between paintings while paint is drying and that helps me keep a fresh perspective.

Who are your favorite artists?

This is such a tough question because no matter who I mention I’ll be forgetting people!

When I was growing up there were two artists whose work was in our house that I found really influential – Sister Corita Kent and Al Newbill. Both mid-century American artists whose work expanded my understanding of form, colour and voice.

Where do you go to discover new artists?

I love group exhibitions because usually you go to see the work of one or two artists, and end up becoming a fan of someone new as well. Instagram is, for better or worse, also a great place to discover artists.