In the bustling metropolis of Vancouver, amidst the diverse tapestry of cultures and creativity, resides Laurelle – or Laurie, as she warmly invites you to call her. A multifaceted artist, Laurie’s journey traverses the realms of graphic design, illustration, and photography, each facet a testament to her unwavering passion for visual storytelling. Born in the vibrant city of Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Laurie’s upbringing in the serene landscapes of Nanaimo, B.C., instilled in her a deep appreciation for both the natural world and urban dynamism. Now, after eight enriching years in Vancouver, Laurie reflects on her artistic odyssey – from childhood doodles to professional endeavors – with a blend of nostalgia and anticipation.
A Blossoming Passion:
From the earliest days of her childhood, Laurie found solace in the act of creation. Crayons in hand, she would sketch whimsical scenes and craft stories to accompany her illustrations, laying the foundation for a lifelong love affair with art. As the years unfolded, her artistic palette expanded, transitioning from crayons to pencils, and later to brushes. Creativity became a constant companion, offering solace during rainy craft days with her mother or painting sessions with her Nana after school. Yet, it wasn’t until high school that Laurie’s artistic potential truly began to flourish.
High School Epiphany:
High school proved to be a pivotal juncture in Laurie’s artistic journey, where her passion found purpose amidst the corridors of creativity. Enrolling in every art class available, she honed her skills under the tutelage of Mrs. Haaf, an impassioned art teacher whose belief in her students’ talents ignited Laurie’s creative spark. Under Mrs. Haaf’s guidance, Laurie explored diverse mediums, from acrylics to pastels, expanding her artistic repertoire with each stroke of the brush. Simultaneously, in the realm of film, Laurie found inspiration in Linda, her film teacher, who introduced her to the captivating world of photography and film editing. Through their mentorship, Laurie’s artistic horizons expanded, paving the way for new avenues of expression and exploration.
Discovering Graphic Design:
Amidst the whirlwind of high school academia, Laurie stumbled upon a revelation that would alter the course of her artistic trajectory forever. In her senior year, a friend introduced her to the realm of graphic design, sparking a newfound sense of clarity and purpose. Delving into the multifaceted world of visual communication, Laurie found resonance in the intersection of creativity and practicality that graphic design offered. It was a medium that transcended boundaries, offering a platform to make sense of the world while fostering connections and evoking emotions. With a newfound sense of direction, Laurie embarked on a journey to pursue her passion for graphic design, blending her creative instincts with pragmatic aspirations.
Artistic Influences:
At the heart of Laurie’s artistic journey lies a tapestry of influences, woven from the threads of her personal experiences and encounters with creative luminaries. From the nurturing embrace of her mother and grandmother, whose artistic talents adorned their home with warmth and beauty, to the guiding hand of Mrs. Haaf and Linda, whose mentorship ignited Laurie’s creative spark, each influence played a pivotal role in shaping her artistic identity. Moreover, Laurie found inspiration in a myriad of peers and industry experts, from Jessica Hische’s mastery of hand lettering to Sean Tulgetske and Sam Larson’s rustic illustrations, each figure contributing to the rich tapestry of Laurie’s artistic palette.
Artistic Process:
At the heart of Laurie’s creative process lies a structured framework, guiding her from ideation to execution with precision and purpose. Whether tackling client projects or personal endeavors, Laurie follows a methodical approach, grounded in research, ideation, and refinement. Beginning with a deep dive into project objectives and audience needs, Laurie cultivates a comprehensive understanding of the task at hand. From there, she embarks on a journey of exploration and experimentation, sourcing inspiration and crafting concepts that resonate with the project’s narrative. Through iterative refinement and meticulous attention to detail, Laurie brings her visions to life, culminating in polished deliverables that captivate and inspire.
Exploring Themes:
As Laurie’s artistic style evolved, so too did the thematic undercurrents that permeated her work. Rooted in lived experiences and reflections on identity, Laurie’s art became a canvas for social commentary and introspection. Themes of race, privilege, and cultural heritage found resonance in her artwork, offering a poignant reflection of her personal journey and societal realities. Moreover, Laurie’s Haitian roots provided a rich tapestry of inspiration, infusing her work with vibrant colors and evocative imagery that spoke to the essence of her cultural heritage.
Favorite Projects:
Among Laurie’s myriad projects, one holds a special place in her heart – the Haitian Queen portrait series. Born out of a university assignment in 2014, the series was a tribute to Laurie’s Haitian heritage, capturing the regal elegance and diversity of her cultural roots. What began as a single portrait evolved into a collection, each piece a celebration of identity and heritage. Through iterations and refinements, Laurie breathed life into her creations, culminating in portraits that transcended mere representation, embodying the essence of resilience and beauty.
Challenges:
Yet, Laurie’s artistic journey was not without its share of challenges. Internal obstacles, such as self-doubt and fear of failure, often threatened to derail her creative pursuits. Imposter syndrome loomed large, casting shadows of doubt on Laurie’s artistic endeavors. However, through resilience and self-reflection, Laurie found the strength to confront these challenges head-on, embracing her vulnerabilities and transforming them into sources of empowerment. Moreover, external challenges, such as limited resources and educational barriers, tested Laurie’s resolve, yet she persevered, leveraging strategic planning and resourcefulness to overcome these hurdles.
Continuous Growth:
Central to Laurie’s artistic ethos is a commitment to continuous growth and evolution. Embracing change as a catalyst for innovation, Laurie remains steadfast in her pursuit of new horizons and creative frontiers. Whether through formal education, self-directed exploration, or collaboration with peers, Laurie seeks to expand her artistic repertoire and push the boundaries of her creativity. Moreover, she draws inspiration from the journeys of fellow creatives, assimilating their insights and experiences into her own practice. Through trial and experimentation, Laurie fosters a dynamic and responsive approach to her craft, embodying the spirit of lifelong learning and growth.
Maintaining a Creative Mindset:
Amidst the demands of daily life, Laurie prioritizes rituals and routines that nurture her creative spirit. While there are no set prescriptions, Laurie finds inspiration in the ordinary – the play of light, the rustle of leaves, the melody of music. By immersing herself in sensory experiences and cultivating a supportive environment, Laurie sustains a creative mindset that fuels her artistic endeavors. Moreover, she recognizes the importance of community and collaboration, drawing strength from shared experiences and collective insights. Through a balance of introspection and engagement, Laurie finds equilibrium amidst the chaos of creativity, embracing the ebb and flow of inspiration with grace and resilience.
Local Collaborations:
While Laurie’s artistic journey has largely been solitary, she harbours a desire to explore collaborative ventures within her local community. Her work has been featured on Canada’s Science World Instagram page, in Really Good Emails, and at the Nanaimo Art Gallery. You can also find her prints locally at the Unity Legacy Excellence Marketplace on Granville Island. As part of the Tentree marketing team, her branded projects appeared in hundreds of their partners’ stores and at festivals and community events such as Bike to Work Week and Skookum Music Festival. Over the years, she has partnered with many non-profits, including Nanaimo Community Hospice, Nanaimo Arts Council and The Paoluzzi Project, to establish their branding and market their initiatives and resources to the community. To add to all these, she has been involved in two markets as an art vendor, her first being with The Girls Next Door summer market this past fall and, more recently, The Girls We Do Adore Family Affair event. Recognizing the power of collective creativity, Laurie seeks opportunities to collaborate with fellow artists and organizations, enriching her artistic practice and fostering connections within the community. Whether through joint exhibitions, creative workshops, or grassroots initiatives, Laurie envisions a future where collaboration serves as a catalyst for innovation and community engagement.
Community Engagement:
At the heart of Laurie’s artistic practice lies a deep-seated commitment to community engagement and cultural enrichment. Through her artwork, Laurie seeks to foster dialogue, celebrate diversity, and amplify marginalized voices within her local community. Whether through thematic explorations of identity and heritage or participatory art projects that invite community involvement, Laurie endeavors to create art that resonates with the lived experiences of her audience. Moreover, Laurie actively participates in local events, exhibitions, and initiatives, leveraging these platforms to showcase her artwork and engage with diverse audiences. By fostering connections and forging meaningful relationships, Laurie seeks to cultivate a vibrant and inclusive artistic community that celebrates creativity in all its forms.
Future Goals:
Looking ahead, Laurie’s aspirations span both short-term endeavors and long-term ambitions. In the short term, she aims to deepen her engagement with the local community, sharing her artwork at markets and events while nurturing her creative passions through regular practice and exploration. Moreover, Laurie envisions a future where her artistic endeavors support her as a full-time business, affording her the opportunity to pursue her creative passions on her own terms. Whether through entrepreneurship or collaborative ventures, Laurie remains steadfast in her commitment to artistic growth and self-expression.
Dream Projects and Collaborations:
Among Laurie’s dream projects is the creation of a large-scale mural in Vancouver, a testament to her artistic vision and a gift to the community she calls home. Additionally, Laurie aspires to license her artwork for reproduction, thereby expanding its reach and impact to a wider audience. These projects represent not only professional milestones but also opportunities for personal fulfillment and creative expression. Through these endeavors, Laurie hopes to leave a lasting legacy that inspires and resonates with audiences for generations to come.
Balancing Passion and Practicality:
As Laurie reflects on her artistic journey, she acknowledges the delicate balance between pursuing passion and meeting practical needs. While the pursuit of artistic fulfillment is paramount, Laurie recognizes the importance of stability and sustenance in sustaining her creative practice. Through disciplined time management, self-care, and a commitment to holistic well-being, Laurie navigates the complexities of creativity with grace and resilience. By embracing both the joys and challenges of artistic pursuit, Laurie finds equilibrium amidst the chaos, forging a path that honors her passions and purpose.
Advice for Aspiring Artists:
To aspiring artists in her community, Laurie offers a message of encouragement and empowerment. Embrace the journey, she urges, trusting in your unique voice and creative vision. In the face of self-doubt and uncertainty, remember that greatness is not measured by external accolades but by the courage to pursue your artistic calling with unwavering determination. Above all, cultivate a sense of self-belief and perseverance, recognizing that your artistic journey is a testament to your resilience and creative spirit.
