In this exclusive interview, we speak to Delphine .
A French artist residing in London, Delphine’s work primarily revolves around the contemporary female experience, drawing inspiration from personal encounters and the ongoing feminist movement in society. She employs a diverse range of media including digital, ink, watercolour, acrylic, and screenprint, with drawing serving as the cornerstone of her artistic expression. Her depictions of defiant female characters, often depicted in solidarity and activism, aim to empower and resonate with the ongoing struggle for women's liberation and expression.
In this interview, we learn about Delphine’s background, inspiration, motivations, and future projects.
Tell us about your studio.
I have always worked from home and my studio has gradually invaded the entire space, one room at a time!
What’s your background?
I graduated in both Fine Art and Illustration and have always been interested in blurring the boundaries between the two (if there are any). After completing my MA at Central Saint Martins in London, I worked as a freelance illustrator whilst exhibiting my personal work in galleries at the same time. Gradually, the gallery work took over, but I still do the odd illustration commission here and there when the subject matter relates and inform the themes developed in my personal practice.
How do you find motivation?
Usually by having an idea or a set of ideas that I’m excited to explore visually.
What drives your work?
Emotions, and the desire to create worlds.
If you could choose one song from one album to reflect your work, what would it be, and why?
Iron by Woodkid. I love the song’s intensity and the blending of classical and electro. There’s a relentless rhythm to it as well which I can relate to.
Where do you draw inspiration from?
Books, films, movies, life… anything that tells a story.
Which three colours could you not do without?
Neon pink (Lascaux does this wonderful acrylic I want to use everywhere), as well as black and dark blue teal.
How has your style or subject matter changed or developed?
It has become more narrative over the years, with a strong focus on psychology and femininity. The ideas have also become clearer and more coherent with intertwined themes that inspire one another. I often revisit subjects and characters.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Not sure if it’s advice, but I do like the sentence by Georgia O’Keefe, “I've been absolutely terrified every moment of my life – and I've never let it keep me from doing a single thing I wanted to do.”
Who inspires you?
My artist friends. I am really lucky to be surrounded by a group of super talented artists. Their drive and energy is contagious and inspirational.
If you could own one piece of artwork what would it be?
Pool of Tears by Kiki Smith.
Alongside yourself, who would be in your ideal group exhibition (from any period of time) and what’s the title?
Oh what a treat! Amongst many others… Henry Darger, Pina Bausch, Marion Fayolle, Jean-Paul Gaultier, Kiki Smith, Kara walker, Sophie Calle, Paula Rego, Tim Walker, Marcel Dzama and Michel Ocelot. And if I was to give a title to the show… maybe “Once Upon a Time”. I think I’d have to come up with something a little less obvious though.
What are you currently working on and what’s next?
I’m working on a new collection of drawings about the symbolism of the woods in popular culture and modern storytelling. It will be launched in Los Angeles in September.
You can explore some of Delphine Lebourgeois’ work in our Summer Print Show – a curated collection of limited edition prints.
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