Acrylic Painting

Laura Thomas

Escape to nostalgic environments in an expressive world of shape and colour.rn

Artist Profile

Escape to nostalgic environments in an expressive world of shape and colour.

Laura’s work explores nostalgic scenes and social moments. The works exist to transport the viewer to uplifting and familiar environments through the use of expressive pattern, colour and still life compositions. Bold blocks of colour and collage define Laura’s practice with layers of paint and collage to add depth and texture. Flowers, animals, vessels, food and interiors are the subject throughout and the flatness/shape can often create multiple outcomes in what the viewer interprets from a work.

The work is predominantly paint on canvas using, acrylic, oil, oil stick and collage. Laura applies techniques that allow her to create naive marks and use shape and pattern opposed to replicating what I see in a literal sense. Laura enjoys pushing the boundaries of conventional still life, creating ambiguity and taking inspiration from artists such as Matisse, Cézanne and Kandinsky. My paintings often celebrate everyday objects with their intense colour and examination of space and form.

Artist Interview

What medium do you work with, and why have you chosen them?

Predominantly with acrylic on canvas and paper because I love the vivid intensity you can create with this medium. I do also enjoy oil and oil stick as it can create a different outcome but I have to be patient with drying times!

How does your artwork get from initial concept to exhibition stage?

Inspiration folders from photographs taken of environments and objects. Sketching and selecting elements to incorporate into my final works. I like to create a story with each body of work and once I'm near completion I regroup in order to add or takeaway elements. Once complete I varnish, sign and photograph the works ready to create marketing for the world to see!

Can you tell us a little more about your creative working environment/studio?

I love my studio which is located on the ground floor of my home in a really cool laneway! I'm very particular about my working environment, it's a bright space with a great vibe. It has good functionality and storage which is important because I like to start the work day with a clear space and head. I have drawers full of paper, paints, varnish and archive pieces. I always paint with a coffee in hand and podcast in my ear.