Multidisciplinary artist and Montauk local Lindsay Bardwil
Montauk-based artist Lindsay Bardwil (lindsaybardwil.com) draws upon the sea—not just for inspiration but also for collaboration. We polled the chic creative for a deeper look.
What inspires your current work? I am, first and foremost, always inspired by nature, and that continues to be the basis of all the work I do. Our planet’s unique biodiversity and ecosystems are the source of all life. I want to create work that inspires us all collectively to do what we can to protect and restore our environments. I have an unusual practice in that the majority of the work I make is created outside. I think of it as a collaboration with the elements. It’s where I am most able to fully immerse myself energetically, no matter the season. The vivid colors and textures of my surroundings here fuel my fascination, energy and creative output. I work with a vast array of natural materials I find on the beach: sand, shells, stones and driftwood. For the last two years, I have been creating on repurposed and discarded materials, whether it be canvas or my most recent ongoing collection of surfboards. I’m currently working on a new series of sculptures created by crystallizing wood and shells I collect on the beach. Transformation is really the current theme in my latest work—how we transform ourselves throughout our journey in the human experience, and in particular, how that transformation is aided through the experience of returning to and spending time in nature. I believe this facilitates a remembrance and rediscovery of our true and most authentic selves through healing body and mind.
What news do you have coming up for the spring or summer season ahead? I have a solo exhibition at The Lucore Art Gallery Sept. 20 through Oct. 11. I’m creating work in a new medium, which is always exciting for me. I have some other things in the works that I’ll be announcing soon!
Bardwil’s pieces explore the human self and our balance with nature. In her latest sculptures, she experiments with natural elements and materials like shells, stone, tempered glass, quartz crystal and more on repurposed surfboards.
What do you love most about living in the Hamptons? What I love most about living in the Hamptons is the access I have to work outside in the beautiful surroundings. Every day can be spent in nature between the beach and state parks. There’s such a vibrant culture here of art and community intertwined with an active outdoor lifestyle. Delicious farm-grown food and fresh fish right out of the ocean. And the sunrises and sunsets are some of the most beautiful in the world. What more can you ask for?
The area has long attracted artists and painters. Why do you think this is, and is this what attracted you? There is a real sense of community that fosters a lot of support for the local artists here. And the appreciation for the arts and nature go hand in hand. The light is something that has drawn all of us, and there are many quotes by famous artists throughout time talking about the magnificent light on Long Island. Truly each season brings its own special beauty. It’s an endlessly inspiring place to live. I was very lucky to grow up with a house here and in Manhattan, so I had the best of both worlds. But as I became more connected to my inspiration, I realized I was much happier here, and I felt a deep calling to move here full time to be able to fully dedicate myself to my art. There is an energy here that feeds the artistic soul.
What are some of your favorite Hamptons locations to unwind and recharge? All of the beaches on the East End are spectacular and are different from town to town; it’s really hard to choose a favorite. Shou Sugi Ban House is my favorite spa to indulge in and unwind. I love going to the Green Thumb for flowers and organic veggies, and they have the best jams. Southampton Bookstore for unique coffee-table books, which are always my go-to for gifts. Hot yoga at Align in Amagansett for my favorite workout. Longhouse Reserve and Parrish Art Museum for art and inspiration. Joni’s for healthy food, smoothies and juices. Buongiorno bakery for the most amazing Italian treats. Alimentari Beach to chill and have a martini. And so many more places—I could go on and on, but I can’t spill all the secrets!
Photography by: PHOTOS COURTESY OF LINDSAY BARDWIL
