Interview with Artist Collaborator Joe Lytle

If you’ve been in The Collaborative on Main, you’ve likely seen the remarkably detailed, captivating, and numerous paintings of Joe Lytle!

Joe has been an Artist Collaborator with us since 2018. Working primarily in acrylic, he invites you to wander with him through imaginary worlds where myth blends with reality, and color is not restrained.

What prompted you to start seriously pursuing art in the 60’s? Did you always feel creatively inclined or was there a particular instance or event that started this creative process for you? 

I had very little exposure to or interest in fine art as a child. I don’t remember going to a gallery or museum until late into my teenage years. All of a sudden we had the dawn of the Age of Aquarius. As the lyrics to the old song go, “When the moon is in the Seventh House and Jupiter aligns with Mars, then peace will guide the planets and love will steer the stars.” It seemed like a good idea to get in on the action and the fun. Why not get some paint and canvases? After all, how hard could that be? Striving to be an artist soon became a passion and part of my self-identity.

You're pretty darn prolific... Do you have a favorite piece out of the many you've made? If so, which one and why?

I have made many paintings and sculptures over the years. Every once in a while one shows up I haven’t seen in decades that go back to the days when I didn’t photograph anything. I’ve gone through many style changes over the years, experimenting in all directions. All pieces bring back memories of life at the time, the people I was with, and the places I lived or visited. I couldn’t pick out a favorite piece. Some of my more primitive creations were made during days on the beach with my family and of the dragons that used to pop out of the water. They appeal to me more than they would to an art critic. While I’m painting, I try to make each new work my best.

Each piece of yours contains a mosaic of elements. How do these ideas and compositions come to you?

I usually go from one painting to the next without much space in between. I love the process as much as the product. You could say I am obsessed with the process. There is so much more to create. Sometimes I start with a theme in mind. I try not getting stuck in the “what am I going to paint next” zone. I used to tell students: “Don’t overthink it. Slap some color and texture on the canvas and let it speak to you. Your stream of consciousness will guide you.” I am always casting people, places, and objects into my imaginary or visionary world of painting. There is no shortage of subjects and possibilities of interactions. I develop my compositions as I go. Each painting is an adventure with an unknown ending.

How did you find out about The Collaborative and why did you choose to get involved with us?

Kathy Rodrigue, a past collaborator, introduced me to The Collaborative. The gallery has a good vibe. I was looking for a place to show that did not place commercialism over freedom of artistic expression. The Artist and other Collaborators were welcoming and provided me with an ongoing local venue for my paintings. I wanted to be part of a gallery that promoted a diverse range of local art and was providing the local community of all ages opportunities for artistic growth.

Who and what inspires you most?

My muse is my wife Mary. As the song said, ”Love will steer the stars.” Life is good and my family and friends have been very supportive. Nature and its creatures cannot be forgotten — they always call out, “hey paint me.” Viewing art of all types makes me want to create. I have been inspired by many artists — too many to list... Max Ernst, Monet, and Seurat all were influences on my style.