Meet Artist Gray Lucci
Gray Lucci is a North Carolina based artist who draws from personal connections to create her work. She is a self-taught painter with a Bachelor of Arts in Human Service Studies & Psychology. Gray is currently pursuing a Master’s Degree in mental health counseling. She focuses clinical mental health and led art-based group therapy. She started simple, by drawing in a sketchbook.
Gray started dabbling in the arts with drawings in a sketchbook. As she developed her craft, her art transformed. She paints on large canvases that represent deep connections she has with her community. Gray’s art can be seen beyond the typical art form. She leaves her artistic mark on the other loves of her life, skateboards and surfboards. Her style is unique and clearly recognizable as you explore her art around the city. She paints murals in public and private spaces as commissioned work. Gray is sought after by small businesses to promote specific visions.
Gray brings awareness to mental health journeys through her work and sheds light on many mental health challenges by painting messy strokes with vibrant colors. Gray takes a brighter approach on mental health to support and connect with people during their most challenging moments.
A statement from Gray…
“I am here to create bold, bright art based on my personal journey with mental health. I strive to truly connect with people because art should be created based on unique, personal experiences. There is power in vulnerability, and I implement that in my work everyday. I enjoy using spray paints and acrylic paints to create pieces that make you think beyond the aesthetic. Oftentimes, I create characters to shed light on anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. I also make art that shows what emotions and challenges feel like. Mental health journeys feel dark, draining, and endless, which is why I create pieces that brighten up your day.
I grew up surrounded by a surfing and skateboarding culture, which is where I draw some of my inspiration along with my personal touch. I am the happiest when I create something funky! Neon colors, messy paint style, glitter, and fun characters excite me. My mantra is, ‘Stay Rad by Staying Real!’ You are the best version of yourself by simply being you and owning it! Keep it real, because you are rad. I’m cheering you on!”
Artist Interview – Gray Lew
Gray Lew shares about her artistry and what made her have such unique style. She uses art to shed light on anxiety, depression and other mental health challenges. Gray was interviewed by Nadin Said to tell us a little more about herself.
“Is there a word, phrase, or feeling that helps you begin your process?”
When I start creating a new piece or am adding to one, I always tell myself, never change my art in hopes to fit in or fall within the “idea” of modern art. In my opinion, being an artist is all about being authentic through your work and sometimes people are not going to connect with the art you create, and that’s okay! I make art because I enjoy it, and I love what I create. I always have to remind myself of this because that is what matters the most. My best work is created through this mindset. So in simple Gray terms and what I always say, stay rad by staying real!
“In your studio, do you listen to music or a podcast? Or do you prefer silence?”
Music all the way, friends! I love to put on a playlist and just go with the flow. I actually have a playlist titled, “Life of Grxy Lxw.” It’s just a short playlist consisting of songs I’m currently listening to! It ranges from some upbeat pop punk to some chill beach bum jams. I often update it and make changes too!!
Here’s the link to the playlist so you can get a feel of the vibe in my studio. Check it out!
“What message are you trying to convey in your work?”
Well, I make messy art! I love fun colors, paint drips, and messy strokes with my brushes. So I hope my art sheds light on the fact that life can be messy, but awesome at the same time. I strive to bring a different outlook on mental health challenges and how it may affect individuals. At the end of the day, I’m just trying to say let’s just keep on coasting, even through the darkest days, because that’s just a part of this beautiful journey.
“What are your three go to materials for making art?”
This is a hard one. I love to play with all different types of mediums! But I’d have to say spray paint, acrylic paints, and glitter. Spray paint has definitely become my favorite materials recently. I love the challenge it brings to my artistic process and the possibilities are endless with a good can of spray paint!
“What is your latest project/what are you currently working on?”
Let’s just say I have 3 blank skateboard decks and some big ideas! I just began working on the first one! The plan is to create 3 cohesive pieces with the same color palette, while also developing 3 totally different messages behind each deck. My hope is that these decks will hang together and reach the skateboarding community! I have always had a big heart for skate culture and I’m so stoked to how these pieces come together! Stay tuned! 🙂
“How can we support you?”
You can best support me by clicking the follow button on Instagram and sharing my work! One post, like, or share makes all the difference for small artists like myself. I’m so appreciative of everyone who has supported me this far, so big shout out to you all. Also I love connecting with everyone, so please never hesitate to reach out via email or direct messages!
Instagram: grxylucci
Gray is so accomplished. She has come advanced tremendously with her talent. Gray uses her experience with anxiety to paint art with meaning that transforms any room.
I love Gray’s art pieces. So happy with my purchased piece, ‘Weight of the World.’ It livens my office at work and is a conversation starter. Very unique style.