dangerous Liasions
JUNE 2024
Oh de Laval is a provocative artist whose daring and sensual art boldly explores the intersections of desire and humor. Born in Warsaw, Poland, and now based in Paris, Oh's work sparks curiosity and controversy, drawing in viewers with her raw, unfiltered depiction of the human experience.
Oh De Laval by Warwan
What pushed you to explore these raw themes in your painting?When I moved to London, I had no money. During that time, my paintings were more hardcore because my daily life was so tough. I was constrained to dress formally at work, coupled with the constant hustle and having to take care of myself all on my own. All these rules and life's struggles made me really crave freedom, painting became my way to break free and express myself fully without any obstacles.
What kind of job did you have back then?I was working in finance, which I liked because it’s a very unique environment and you learn a lot about people. My colleagues would often open up to me during breaks, sharing details about their weekends, how they spent their free time and most specifically their diverse perspectives and experiences on relationships between men and women. These interactions would spark scenes in my mind.
Do you anticipate certain paintings will attract more attention than others?Never. I'm trying to connect to people's emotions, but knowing which painting will resonate more than another is unpredictable. It's like a gambling, I am always trying to figure out which magic trick will work and connect with the audience. Sometimes it works and sometimes it doesn’t.
"I like the idea of women being portrayed as villains, doing something mischievous to men, but nothing too serious, just playful revenge."
Oh De Laval for Playboy Magazine Netherland
What fascinates you about sexual relationships?I think sex is like the fuel that drives us to live fully and do the things we want to do, like getting dressed up, putting on makeup, and chasing our goals. I believe that deep down, everything connects back to this basic sexual energy that makes us feel alive.
Are you mostly inspired by other people’s private life or your own experience?A lot of my scenes are inspired by people’s lives, especially new acquaintances who share their personal stories with me. It's not always the case though, it can happen that their stories inspire me but I always like to add my own spin on it!
Do you think about how people might feel about your paintings?
I don’t worry about that because I believe as an artist, your role is to be brave and to do risky things. I want my paintings, as much as the women in them, to be dangerous.
Why do your paintings often depict women as villains?I like the idea of women being portrayed as villains, doing something mischievous to men, but nothing too serious, just playful revenge. That's part of the humor in my paintings. It's like a funny villain messing around with Batman.
Do you often take revenge on men?Not in my personal life, only in my paintings. These are the revenge paintings [Laughs]. Whenever there's a lot of emotions, especially sexual energy, it's better to express it on canvas. It feels more authentic and relatable to people.
Do many people misbehave towards you, for instance on social media?People on the internet will never behave, it’s unprofessional so it doesn’t bother me. That's the finance side of me—being in control and not getting affected by it. Also, when you make art that is daring and that not everyone will like, there are consequences and that's the price you have to pay.
Do people have preconceptions about you based on your art?
It can be tough sometimes, for instance when I meet a guy and he asks for my Instagram [Laughs]. I am joking, that’s not a big deal. However, when it comes to the art world it can be different. It takes balls to hang a painting like mine in your living room and not in your bedroom. So I understand that people might criticize my work, it's part of the deal. I think artists should worry more when nobody's reacting to their work versus when they do.
You're currently exhibiting some paintings at the Museum of Sex in New York. What's the show about?
I am currently part of an exhibition at the Museum of Sex in New York, alongside artists Shafei Xia and Urara Tsuchiya. This exhibition is about embracing sexual freedom and I am showing several paintings, including a big canvas which are on view until January 19th, 2025.
Text by Lisa Boudet