Texas-based artist Lesa Shaw paints women of colour with a rare balance of strength and stillness. In this conversation, she reflects on evolving from vibrant, expressive portraits toward quieter, more atmospheric figurative work rooted in reflection, transformation, and emotional presence. From drawing paper dolls as a child to becoming a self-taught painter and educator, Shaw speaks about colour, intuition, teaching, and why her latest body of work is less about being seen and more about truly