From Chaos to Quiet: Laura Bernardeschi Nelson’s Journey Through Art and Healing

Interview with Laura Bernardeschi Nelson

1. Please tell us something about your background and your art journey so far.

I’m Laura Bernardeschi Nelson, an artist born in Italy and now rooted in the UK. My journey with art has always been guided by curiosity, emotion, and a touch of chaos — which is why I love mixed media, acrylics, and oil pastels. They let me layer stories, textures, and sometimes even accidents that turn out better than my original plan.Since 2018, I’ve been lucky enough to share my work in exhibitions across the UK and abroad, exploring themes of identity, resilience, and our delicate connection to the environment. Along the way, I also discovered that words, like paint, can capture moments of truth. That’s how I came to write three books: Paper and Fire: An Artist’s Journey Through Change, my memoir of transformation; Mixed Media and Climate Awareness: Laura’s Impactful Art, a reminder that creativity can be a powerful voice for the planet; and The Pose That Hurts, which dives into vulnerability and self-image — showing that even awkward poses tell a story.For me, art and writing are both invitations — to pause, to laugh, to reflect, and to remember that beauty often hides in the very places that feel uncomfortable at first.

2. Describe what a normal day looks like as an artist.

A normal day as an artist begins in my studio, surrounded by acrylics, oil pastels, mixed media, and sometimes found objects that I recycle into my work. Yet I always find myself needing to pause. I’ll step outside for a walk or sit quietly in my garden, where the rhythm of nature restores me. Gardening and art are the two columns of my life — one allows me to express, the other teaches me to breathe.In the studio, I explore textures, layers, and emotions, blending materials old and new; in the garden, I listen to growth, patience, and quiet reflection. Moving between the two creates balance, so that by the end of the day, whatever I have created carries with it a sense of grounding and renewal.

3. Can you tell us more about the theme in your art and your inspiration?

Before, my work was more focused on colorful abstract paintings in acrylics, or portraits of women — sometimes my own self-portraits — with vibrant hair and expressive, intriguing faces inspired by pop art. These pieces were lively, bold, and full of energy, reflecting my fascination with color, form, and personality.This year, after navigating some mental health challenges, my practice shifted. I began working with oil pastels, and my art became more connected to spirituality, nature, landscapes, seascapes, dreams, and even fairies. I found a quiet within my work after the emotive storm, creating pieces that feel meditative and deeply personal. The tactile nature of oil pastels allows me to blend colors, textures, and emotions in a way that resonates with my inner journey, capturing transformation, reflection, and renewal. My inspiration now comes from many sources — the rhythm of nature in my garden, recycled objects I incorporate into my pieces, and the ongoing dialogue between change and continuity in life. Ultimately, my art reflects the process of growth and healing, a visual record of resilience, beauty, and the quiet moments that follow the storm.

4. How does your art life impact other parts of your life?

My life as an artist deeply influences all other parts of my life. I also work part-time in a library, which has been a wonderful source of inspiration. Having access to books on art, history, and creativity constantly feeds my imagination and often sparks ideas that find their way into my work. At the same time, being an artist can feel isolating in a world where many people live simply to work without ambitions or dreams. I often find it difficult to connect with them, and I naturally prefer spending my hours alone in the studio, immersed in creation, rather than participating in idle gossip over a pint. For me, solitude is not loneliness — it’s a space to reflect, experiment, and nurture both my art and myself.

5. Could you share any difficulties and hardships you had to face in life and how or if you managed/overcame them?

In the last 10 years, I have faced several significant hardships, including strong anxiety and post-traumatic stress from an abusive relationship, the challenges of the COVID pandemic, and the loss of a dear friend to cancer. On top of that, moving from London to Bristol, and then from Bristol to Newcastle within just four years, brought additional upheaval and periods of adjustment that affected both my personal and creative life.Art has been my refuge and my therapy. It has given me a way to express emotions that were too complex or painful for words, whether on paper or canvas. Through painting and writing, I could process grief, fear, and anxiety in a constructive and meaningful way. Connecting with other artists — souls who share similar sensitivities — has also been a profound support, reminding me that creativity can be both a lifeline and a bridge to understanding and healing.Through these challenges, I’ve learned that resilience often comes in quiet moments — in the studio, in the garden, and in the act of creation itself. Art has not only helped me survive difficult times but has also shown me that hope, renewal, and beauty can emerge even after the darkest storms.

6. Tell us about your best experience in the art world so far.

One of the most memorable experiences in my art journey was modeling as a life model in London. Being on the other side of the easel gave me a deep appreciation for the creative process and allowed me to meet several incredible artists who inspired me to explore new ways of seeing and expressing the human form.Another unforgettable moment was when I sold my first painting on Saatchi Art. It was a profound validation — to know that my work could connect with someone else and find a place in their life. Both experiences, in very different ways, reminded me of the power of art to inspire, connect, and transform — and they continue to motivate me every day.

7. Share your worst experience in the art world.

One of the most difficult experiences in my art journey was when I paid £100 to an art gallery I discovered on CuratorSpace for a solo exhibition, only for them to disappear afterward. It was incredibly disappointing and frustrating, and it reminded me of the challenges and risks that can come with navigating the art world.Even so, the experience became a lesson in resilience and discernment. It reinforced my commitment to my art, teaching me to trust my instincts, research opportunities carefully, and keep moving forward despite setbacks.

8. What practical advice can you give to fellow artists?

My advice to fellow artists is simple: follow your feelings and emotions when you create. If you’re self-taught like me, take classes — online or in person — to improve your technique, but most importantly, make a habit of painting or drawing regularly. I try to work every day and focus on my art rather than spending too much time on social media. Consistent practice and presence in your creative process are what allow your work to grow and develop its own voice.

9. Is the artist life lonely? Please share your thoughts and experiences.

Life as an artist can be lonely in the sense that it requires long hours alone in the studio, focused on creative projects. But I’ve found that my creativity fills my mind and soul, so I never truly feel alone. I often attend workshops to meet kindred spirits or work as a life model, which allows me to connect with other artists and share inspiration. In fact, I often feel more alive and connected while creating or engaging with fellow artists than in social settings that don’t inspire me. Sitting in a pub with people who live without ambitions or creative passions can sometimes feel dull or like wasted time, whereas in my studio or in the company of fellow artists, every hour feels meaningful and full of possibility.

10. What are you working on at the moment and are there any upcoming events you would like to talk about?At the moment, I am focused on organizing my first solo exhibition, both online and in person, planned for 2026. Alongside this, I continue to participate in group exhibitions across the UK and internationally, which keeps me inspired and connected to the broader art community. I am also promoting my books and considering a new writing project.

Here are some of my recent projects from 2025:

●      Published in Art Loving magazine

●      EXI: Call for Art, Existential Art Exhibition, Crypt Gallery St Pancras, Central London – February 2025

●      Cupola’s Under The Bed Sale, Sheffield – January/February 2025

●      Artists’ Protest: In Words & Images!, Dunoon MOCA, Scotland

●      Contrast Issue 3, Meta Space Gallery, UK – January 2025

●      24th Community Art Exhibition in Virtual Reality – January/February 2025

●      Interview on Artist Close Up: link

●      Portraits and Figures, Open Gallery, Halifax, UK – March 2025

●      Self-portrait featured in Cista Art catalogue – March 2025

●      Surf & Turf, Badger in the Wall, Clapham, North Yorkshire – March/April 2025 (The Tree)

●      Virtual Reality Exhibition: Pets/Domestic Animals, The Animal Artspace

●      Certificate of Participation, 7th Edition Dantebus, Roma/Firenze, Italy

●      In Light of All of This: Soft Power Strong Voice, Cista Art (online) – August 2025

●      Land/Sea/Sky Exhibition, Fronteer Art, Sheffield, UK – August/September 2025

In addition, I am the author of:

●      Paper and Fire: An Artist’s Journey Through Change (Amazon KDP)

●      Mixed Media and Climate Awareness: Laura’s Impactful Art (Amazon KDP)

●      The Pose That Hurt: Becoming an Artist Through Life Modeling and Rebellion (Amazon KDP)

Every project and exhibition allows me to explore new ideas, connect with fellow artists, and share my vision with a wider audience. I’m excited for what 2026 will bring,and I look forward to continuing both my artistic and literary journeys.

Website : www.lauraartist68.uk

Instagram : @lauranelsonartist68