In this intimate conversation, Brazilian-born, Miami-based artist Larissa Linhares shares how her roots, spirituality, and travels have shaped her abstract artistic vision. From global exhibitions to her evolving technique, she opens up about what truly inspires her.
Larissa, you’re originally from Brazil but now based in Miami. How have both places influenced your artistic journey?
I believe Brazil has had a stronger influence on my artistic journey, especially because of my childhood memories. Miami, on the other hand, gave me the opportunity to take my painting to a professional level. Both places have played important roles in shaping my path as an artist, and I believe they each contributed to the artist I’ve become.
Nature and spirituality are strong sources of inspiration for you. Can you describe how these themes appear in your work?
Nature is a strong inspiration for me because I grew up surrounded by it. I lived in beautiful places like Belém do Pará and Fortaleza — one known for its jungles and rivers, the other for its ocean and dunes. Spirituality has always been part of my life. I was raised in a very spiritual family, and over the years, my faith and spirituality have only deepened. My artwork reflects themes of nature and spiritual connections with God and the universe.
Larissa, you’ve participated in exhibitions around the world — what has been your most memorable show so far, and why?
I would say the Biennale and Miami exhibitions were the most memorable. The Biennale represents a powerful combination of art, history, and the tradition of Venice, Italy. In Miami, I had the chance to interact with the public and share my ideas and inspiration. It was a very meaningful and enriching experience.
You describe your work as a fusion of modern abstract, expressionism, post-impressionism, and impressionism. How do you blend these styles into a cohesive visual language?
My art is built in layers, and I always strive to create something unique that expresses my essence and soul. My technique combines the use of spatulas, pointillism, bold brushstrokes, impasto, and underpainting. This fusion allows me to create a cohesive and distinctive visual language.
Can you walk us through your creative process — from inspiration to the final piece?
My creative process begins with an image combined with a feeling or emotion. It could be a memory, a place, or an idea. I start visualizing the artwork in my mind — choosing the colors and deciding what I want to express on the canvas. It’s an urgent, instinctive need to express myself. Then I begin the layers: drawing the images, painting layer by layer. I give birth to each unique piece. I always try to create something different — with unique drawings and colors — because they represent different emotions, memories, and sensations. Every day is different, and that’s what I try to reflect in my art: we’re in constant motion, always evolving.
How do personal experiences translate into your abstract compositions?
I created a very abstract piece called Creations, which has a strong personal connection. It explores the idea that all lines are interconnected — like our thoughts and ideas. Even though most of my work is abstract, every piece carries meaning, messages, and connections — even in the choice of colors and forms. My personal experiences are present in all my paintings; they are my life translated through art.
Are there any Brazilian or international artists who have influenced your style or career?
Yes, definitely. Van Gogh — for his soul and his expressive paintings. Klimt — for his genius. And from Brazil, Tarsila do Amaral, because she brought international recognition to Brazilian art and culture.
Finally, Larissa, what message or emotion do you hope viewers take away from your work?
I want my art to convey a sense of uniqueness — a connection with nature, places, and spirituality. I also want to share my Brazilian heritage with others, and create a space for reflection, emotion, and inspiration.
