​

Lisa Laratta/
design for theatre and film

---

 Much of my artistic work explores the mind, imagination, memory and dream worlds. I strive to create stage architecture that suggests imaginary spaces: unreal landscapes where our collective memories overlap.I use colour, texture, materiality, space, form, rhythm and time to tell a story, to ask questions, to attempt connections, and to grasp at the beautiful and the elusive.
 
I often use the systems of the theatre: sandbags, ropes, and pulleys to mimic the systems in the human body. I create an exposed working environment to enhance the attempts of the theatrical text to unravel the intricacies of the human condition. I try to address the entire performance space as one cohesive, connected world. I love to paint huge backdrops and build large set pieces that are carefully designed, specific and meticulous, elegant while being playful.
 
Lisa got her BFA in Toronto, ON and worked for a number of years there as a scenic artist for theatre and film. She received her MFA in Theatrical Design from the University of Texas at Austin in 2008 and has been based in Austin since graduation. Lisa creates vast and detailed worlds for stage and screen using architecture, furniture, fabric, string, found objects, light and paint. When not freelancing as a scene designer, model-maker, graphic designer or scenic artist for such theater companies as Rude Mechanicals, Salvage Vanguard Theater and St Edward’s University, Lisa produces, designs and directs with the theatre company that she co-founded, paper chairs, winning critical acclaim and numerous awards. Lisa also production designs, art directs and paints for film.