ARTIST’S STATEMENT

A memory stirred, a shared smile, a pull at the heart.  This is what I hope to evoke through my art.  Simple subjects, familiar scenes, vibrant colors, bold composition and words remembered are my signatures.  It’s about seeing the familiar in a wonderful new way.  My art is a reflection of a lifetime of experiences - from childhood art, work as a graphic designer, a deep love of travel and the outdoors, teaching art and being in the presence of two beautiful children of my own, each creative in their own way. 

Perhaps nothing has impacted my style more than the experience of teaching art lessons to children.  Their enthusiasm and lack of inhibition shines through every creation.  I seek to bring this joy and simplicity to my life and to my work.  I have discovered that the extraordinary is so often wrapped in the ordinary.  With paintbrush, color and imagination, I hope to illuminate this in my art. 

ARTIST’S BIO

Adding a touch of whimsy and wonder to everyday subjects is the signature of artist Laurie Richardson.  Her paintings demonstrate a unique approach to each subject and reflect her graphic design background.  A watercolorist for many years, she now prefers oils or pastels to express her favorite elements of art:  color and composition.  In 2008, she added mixed media (acrylic painting with collage) to her portfolio.  Her works are a joyful infusion of color, collage and composition.

A graduate of the University of Georgia with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design, Laurie was an advertising agency art director prior to starting her own graphic design business.  During this time, she began painting more and gradually became a full-time fine artist.  Laurie has traveled extensively, selling her work at art festivals and private shows.  Her award-winning work is displayed in public and private collections throughout the country. Her largest painting is a 48’ x 12’ mural that adorns the pool area of the Dowd YMCA in Charlotte, NC.

Having taken art classes since childhood, Laurie continues her studies through professional workshops with nationally known instructors, honing her skills in a variety of artistic mediums.  In addition to painting, she teaches art lessons to children and also enjoys faux painting and interior design.   Laurie has had work juried into the Watercolor Society of NC, Southern Watercolor Society, Sweet Pea Festival in Bozeman, MT, the Charlotte Art League and The Piedmont Pastel Society.  She is a native of Charlotte, North Carolina, where she lives with her husband and two children.