Frank Ratchye Project Space: Paula Lucia

Frank-Ratchye Studio Artist Project Space

Image: Paula Lucia in the Frank Ratchye Project Space

Paula Lucia is fascinated in finding the balance between opposing forces within abstraction. Her two-dimensional work creates space that is both flat and layered; color that is simultaneously harmonious and unbalanced; and imagery that is graphic and abstracted. Lucia’s paintings create swirling worlds of geometric forms in which the viewer is transported to a new, window-like realm -- only to then be pushed out again.

In her recent work, Lucia has developed a reciprocal relationship between her paintings and brand of snapback hats. Lucia’s approach to reclaimed materials is utilized as collage with her paintings and then re-purposed fabric for her hats. Placed in relationship to one another, these individualized hats take on new meaning as a singular object - pushing forward the intention of wearable art. 

Paula is interested in the simplicity of a single geometric shape and the complexity that can be created through the combination of many simple structures. Her compositions feel both graphic and flat, painterly and layered. The hybridization of these opposing characteristics creates an experience that is not easily digested at one glance. Lucia is from Los Gatos, California. She holds a BFA in Art & Design from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. She currently works as a children's art teacher in San Mateo and is a Root Division Studio Artist living in San Francisco.

LEARN MORE ABOUT PAULA LUCIA