Re: Why Building Relationships in Artworld Matters as an Artist | Lucy Lucy

In this episode, host Charuka Arora chats with the super talented Lucy Lucy — an artist originally from Paris who now calls Australia home. Lucy shares her incredible journey from studying international commerce (yes, really!) to taking a big leap and becoming a full-time artist.

She talks about how moving to Melbourne changed everything. Surrounded by a supportive and creative community, Lucy found the freedom to express herself and grow as an artist. Her colourful, joyful artwork is a beautiful reflection of how she sees the world — full of energy, beauty, and connection.

Lucy also opens up about the real-life struggles of being an artist. It’s difficult, from constantly posting on social media to promoting her work. But through it all, she’s learned to stay true to herself and focus on what she loves most—creating art that feels honest and meaningful.

This is a heartwarming and inspiring conversation about following your passion, embracing your creative path, and finding joy. Lucy’s story will tell you whether you’re an artist, an art lover, or someone looking for inspiration.

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Lucy Lucy’s Creative Journey & the Power of Connection

Lucy Lucy is a French-born artist who made her way to Australia in 2006 and has been making her mark in the art world ever since. Now based in Melbourne, she’s become a vibrant part of the urban art scene, painting murals and exhibiting her work in France, Canada, Thailand, the UK, and the US.

Her artwork celebrates the power and spirit of women, featuring goddesses, mothers, and muses in bold colours and symbolic portraits. Through her art, Lucy invites us to explore what it means to be a woman—and how those stories live inside us all.

Lucy felt that establishing herself as an artist in Paris would have been extremely difficult, given the number of talented individuals and the weight of the city’s cultural history. In contrast, Melbourne offered her a more open and supportive environment, where she could explore her creativity and find her own voice.

How Moving to Melbourne Helped Lucy Find Her Voice

Although Lucy was born in Paris, often seen as the world’s art capital, she chose to build her creative career in Melbourne. While Paris is packed with history and inspiration, Lucy found it overwhelming and highly competitive. She felt it would be hard to stand out or grow as an artist there.

In contrast, Melbourne gave her space to breathe. It offered a more supportive environment where she could take creative risks, connect with others, and find her voice. The move wasn’t just a change in geography—it helped shape the artist she is today.

Finding Her “Art Sister” and the Magic of Collaboration

One of Lucy’s most meaningful parts of her art journey has been her collaboration with Colombian-Australian artist Katherine Geler. Lucy calls her an “art sister. ” Their connection goes beyond just painting together—they understand each other’s backgrounds, challenges, and joys as immigrant women artists.

Their partnership led to a beautiful joint exhibition, and Lucy says these relationships are essential. She believes connection is at the heart of everything, whether it’s with fellow creatives or the people who view her work. It’s how stories are shared, inspiration is passed on, and real magic happens.

Lucy emphasizes the importance of connection in her artistic practice, both with other artists and with the audience. She believes that art is a means of communication and a way to bridge the gap between people. Through collaboration, she finds strength and inspiration, and she encourages other artists to seek out meaningful connections in their own journeys.

Colour, Culture & Celebrating Diversity Through Art

Lucy’s paintings are known for their vibrant, joyful colours—and that’s no accident. She uses colour to bring life to her work and to express deep emotions. She believes that colours can lift us, trigger memories, and create a sense of beauty in everyday life.

Her art often features women from diverse backgrounds, reflecting her multicultural experiences and the women she admires. She’s deeply inspired by feminine energy and strength; her work honours that in all its forms.

The Real Struggle: Balancing Art with Everything Else

Being an artist isn’t all paint and inspiration. Lucy is honest about the tougher parts—like balancing creativity with the business side of things. As a freelance artist, she wears many hats: organizing exhibitions, managing social media, sending invoices, and keeping up with clients.

It’s a lot. But she’s learned these tasks are just as important as the painting. They help her build a sustainable career and reach people who connect with her work. Her advice? Be open to learning new things—even the boring or hard—because it helps you grow.

Lucy believes that technology should enhance the creative process rather than detract from it, and she encourages artists to be mindful of how they use technology in their practice.

Tech & Creativity: Finding Balance in the Digital Age

Technology has changed the way artists work, and Lucy is no exception. She appreciates how it helps her document her process, share her work, and connect with audiences worldwide.

But she’s also mindful of the downsides—the constant pressure to post, promote, and always “be on.” Lucy encourages other artists to be intentional with tech. Use it as a tool, not a distraction. Stay present with your work, and don’t let the digital world detract from the joy of creating.

Through her paintings, she aims to create a sense of joy and positivity, inviting viewers to embrace the beauty of diversity.

Lucy’s journey is a powerful reminder that following your passion isn’t always easy—but it’s always worth it. From her early days in Paris to painting murals in Melbourne, she’s stayed true to her voice while embracing new cultures, friendships, and creative challenges.

Her story is about more than just art. It’s about trusting yourself, finding your people, and celebrating what makes you—and others—unique. Through bold colours and soulful portraits, Lucy invites us to see the strength in women, the power of diversity, and the beauty of staying connected.

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