Signature Laurel Fine Art and Other Musings

What's in My Bag noW?

2012-01-12T18:25:00.000-08:00

I've been so busy I can barely check what's in my bag, but here are a few excerpts!..

Creative Colorful Commission

2011-11-29T09:48:00.000-08:00

When I was asked to do this 36"x48" commissioned piece I knew I had my work cut out for me. The main goal was to make it work well in the space, which includes bright colors of all types together in a flowering display of vibrancy.

The client loved it, and it looks amazing in the eclectic space, so I'm thrilled!

Thanks and Ciao! Laurel :)

What's in My Bag

2011-11-09T00:50:00.000-08:00

I'm really enjoying the visual journey I took for this edition of "What's in My Bag". Hope you will too!

Thanks for stopping by! Laurel :)

Downtown Wholesale Art!

2011-11-05T19:09:00.000-07:00

A tribute to the CYC Ladies!

I was recently invited to a fun excursion with a group of CYC ladies on a bus filled with mimosas on the way to the downtown wholesale market! I can not even begin to describe what it is like there.. rows upon rows of storefronts, some of which were full and bustling, some quiet and surreal. I found some wonderful things I've been looking for at amazing wholesale prices. I vow to go back forever! It's kind of like the Vatican or the Louvre, you can not possibly see it all in one day. Hahaha

Bon Voyage! ~Laurel

The Art of Cuisine

2011-11-03T21:42:00.000-07:00

I was perusing the Dollar Book Store when my eyes spotted a gem! 'The Art of Cuisine' by Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec and his childhood friend Maurice Joyant, who put together Lautrec's recipes after he died. Every page is filled with Lautrec's art, along with all his very own recipes that he invented. He thought of cuisine as an artistic expression, and I agree!

Since I cook a lot, I always want to share the beautiful dishes I make, but I don't want this to be a food blog, so with Lautrec in mind this time, I offer my plate of Red Velvet Cupcakes as my artistic expression this week! They're just too pretty and yummy not to share. (Paula Deen's Recipe)

If you can get the book, I highly recommend it, if only for the art! I can't wait to make something from it... Sheep's trotters poulette and Boar's Head? or how about Grilled shad on a bed of young sorrel?

Adieu! -Laurel

Collage Du Jour

2011-10-21T20:06:00.000-07:00

Here are a few more of my collages inspired by the ATCs!

Ciao! Laurel

Collage Inspirage!~

2011-10-09T18:09:00.000-07:00

My dearest friend gave me a fun magazine full of vintage images, so I immediately felt inspired and went to work! This is what came to life before me, and I have another one on its way! Thanks DVV!

Ciao! Laurel

La Papessa.. Pope Joan Inspires!

2011-10-03T18:08:00.000-07:00

My book club just finished Pope Joan and I was inspired to make an ATC (Artist Trading Card) for the host and bookmarks for the rest of the gals! Sometimes I just can't help it, and La Papessa took control!

Ciao! Laurel

Bust of Shells, my Little Statue

2011-09-21T10:54:00.000-07:00

I found a bag of shells in my studio and immediately envisioned a bust made out of them. I instantly began the piece, and here it is! It can sit on multiple sides, making for different experiences, based on your mood.

Original Available

Let the sun shine on you today!
Ciao! Laurel :)

My new Dancing Girl!

2011-09-16T20:52:00.000-07:00

I started a little Artist Trading Card Party online with my artist friends. The goal is for each of us to create a lil something, share it, and then trade at the end.

My "Dancing Girl" is going to a lucky fellow trader. Hopefully I was able to get some people inspired by this challenge! Peace! Laurel :)

My First TILE!

2011-09-04T15:30:00.000-07:00

This is my first original tile.

Commissioned Piece goes to Avalon!

2011-08-22T18:39:00.000-07:00

My newest commissioned piece!

"On the Way to Avalon" .. Signature Laurel 2011

Acrylic on Canvas .. 48"x48"

Thanks to my awesome clients I have this great picture of it in its new home! To purchase a print or card, click the image below.

Or contact laurel@signaturelaurel.com to commission your own~

Many price points available!

Ciao! Laurel :)

My Book Club is in 3rd Grade!

2011-08-19T21:29:00.000-07:00

This month, I celebrated with some of my comrades, a very special occasion! Though we started with 3 on August 14, 2004, we now have 10, and can not fathom any more people! My literary sisters, my friends, KaBOOKi. Thank you girls!!

~laurel

2011-08-09T17:36:00.000-07:00

How long it has been since I've posted! Notice how fast the time goes when you're busy creating and living life?! I promise to be better, I've been working on a bunch of new stuff.. I'll be back any minute with something NEW!

Ciao! Laurel

Quick Fun Sketches

2011-06-26T09:45:00.001-07:00

Part of a new series, these are one of a kind, quick sketches by me.

Available for purchase. www.SignatureLaurel.com

Ciao! Laurel

Color Monoprints!

2011-05-19T21:04:00.000-07:00

I was invited back to the printing class!!

This time I went with colored oils. Which one is YOUR favorite??

Have a great day! Laurel

Monoprints!

2011-05-12T09:50:00.000-07:00

The other day I sat in on a print making class and enjoyed some time with the press. Here's what I came up with on my first try. Now I have tons of ideas for more!

Peace! Laurel

Woh Ladki on the Beach

2011-04-29T18:32:00.000-07:00

This is my newest finished piece.. a portrait of my beautiful Indian friend.
Acrylic on Canvas 11"x14"

Santi
शांति
Signature Laurel

Think Warm!

2011-04-01T11:43:00.000-07:00

While Spring is here, I know a lot of people are anxiously waiting to actually feel it. For those of you who are still stuck in the cold, here are some pictures of sunny California to warm you up! 78 degrees all year long, baby!

Cowabunga Dude!
Laurel

Shiva Surfing

2011-03-20T17:54:00.000-07:00

This is my new piece.. an original drawing by mE! First I drew her with a pencil, then with Micron Pen, then I scanned her and colored her in Photoshop. Click on her to get yourself a print or t-shirt!

Namaste! Laurel

The Look of Abstraction

2011-03-18T19:02:00.001-07:00

My husband loves this style, so I told him he had to name it. It is called 'The Look' -2011.

Ciao! Laurel

New paintings of 2011

2011-03-16T23:20:00.001-07:00

Here are a couple new pieces that I first displayed at the Mardi Gras Art Village.
As of now the originals are available, contact laurel@signaturelaurel.com
Click on the pictures for prints or other options.
Ciao! Laurel

Beach Sunset 24"x36" Available

Lady of Leisure 16"x20" Available

"What's in My Bag?!" Lately

2011-03-13T00:39:00.000-08:00

And the Winner is....

2011-03-08T11:09:00.000-08:00

We have a winner of our Signature Laurel Challenge!
Participants were asked to send in a photo of their original Signature Laurel Art Piece in its surroundings, and the winner is... BRYNN! Brynn will receive the Grand Prize!
Thanks so much to all who participated. It was a fun challenge!

Stay tuned for my next challenge! Ciao, Laurel

Showed my Art at the LB Mardi Gras Festival!

2011-03-05T20:40:00.000-08:00

We had a great turnout at the Long Beach Mardi Gras! At one point the Artist Village was absolutely packed from every angle. Thanks so much to Timothy Dunham and everyone else involved!

Ciao! Laurel

Signature Laurel Made the Front Page of Long Beach Mardi Gras!

2011-03-01T16:57:00.000-08:00

I was very excited to see My Painting Featured on the Main Page for Long Beach Mardi Gras! Woohoo!! Please click the photo below to go to their Website and for more information about Long Beach Mardi Gras!

Ciao! Laurel :)

Graphic Design from 2009

2011-02-20T21:27:00.000-08:00

L'Artiste Salon - Ladies' Beach Craft Party!

2011-02-13T19:30:00.000-08:00

Last weekend I hosted my second ever craft party! I made some snacks, and a few crafty little party favors. Only ladies were invited, and some men were sad about it, but such is life. We need our girl time!

For my party favors I clipped off some succulents from my balcony garden and potted them in teacups. My Mom brought all her beads for everyone to make bracelets! We also had knitting, t-shirt bag designing, sketching, journal writing, and general craftiness. I spent most of my time chatting up friends I hadn't seen in a long time, but managed to do some sketching as well.

One of my 'craftier' menu items was my halva, placed in a sunflower dish with sunflower seeds on top.

After everyone departed, I made this collage out of leftover strewn magazines.

Thanks to all who came!! It was such a joy to have everyone here!
I can NOT wait for my next craft partyyy!!!! ciao! Laurel

Key Hole Arch En Plein Air

2011-01-31T20:51:00.000-08:00

We spent a beautiful day on the cliff, overlooking Key Hole Arch in Laguna. The birds were sunbathing by the shore, and a tiny rabbit hid from the sun behind a rock. People strolled up and down the perfectly manicured walk-way lined with luscious native foliage, many of them stopping to give us a complement, which was appreciated. Growing up in California, I sometimes forget how lucky I am to be in such amazing weather during January, and this is one reason I pay homage to the ocean in much of my art.

The place where the land meets the sea is where I love to be.

Here are our final pieces.

His:

Mine:

Stay tuned for another episode of 'Plein Air'!

Ink Mermaid Goes Where She's Told

2010-12-28T17:44:00.000-08:00

My friend mentioned this little sketch of mine would look good on a t-shirt, so I went ahead and put it on one! Do you think I should color her in? -Laurel

Gingerbread in the House! Part 2: Bit off more than I could chew..

2010-12-26T12:33:00.000-08:00

When you're setting out to make a replica of a specific home, be sure to know that the hardest part will be the entire thing!

Every part of this project was difficult, except for tracing out the floor plan from Google Maps. That was the first step. Once I had my outline of the birds' eye view, I proceeded to attempt to draw out each wall, including every window and every door. This took FOREVER, and I was convinced when I was done that the hard part was over. It was not. After carefully cutting out each piece and baking them all just at the right temperature and time, I then had a million little pieces that all looked a lot like each other! Well, you know what happened next.. you start with two pieces and hold them up until they stand alone, then you go from there.

Once I had my base, it was time to roof it and drop some candy. I had purchased every piece of candy known to resemble anything, only to realize that this house is all stucco! Usually I deck out my gingerbread houses in tons of candy, covering the walls, ceilings, doors, but this was supposed to LOOK like the house, so all I had was a great big spanish tile roof and some stucco.

Now, you could say, "Well Laurel, so much foliage you could have added, there are trees and leaves and flowering plants all around this house! It is a wonderful garden splendor, with fruit trees, birds, grapevines, roses... and on and on". The answer to that is, "I got tired, and Christmas came". Here's what I got, the hubby helped with some stucco... and thank goodness no one was paying for this! I had a great time, but next year, it's back to M&Ms and spice drops covering a house that I make up in my head!
Cheers! Laurel

Gingerbread in the House!

2010-12-17T17:20:00.000-08:00

Though time consuming, one of my favorite things to do is make gingerbread houses for the 'season'. This is just the amuse bouche to what I have in store, if I still have the energy to carry out my next ginger plan.

I made this gingerbread village for each of my kaBOOKi gals, as well as a gingerbread book for author Dianne Dixon who attended our discussion of her book, The Language of Secrets. What a treat it was for each of us to sit around our beautiful host's Christmas laden home in the woods, while listening to the author recant tales of what made her write this or that, all the while feasting on an amazing spread of delights.

Packed up and ready to go!

Stay tuned for 'Gingerbread in the House' Part 2!
Ciao! Laurel

Laurel's Abstraction

2010-11-24T09:39:00.000-08:00

My mind wheels and I can feel
Abstract, colorful visions of teal.
Pinks and blues, all kinds of hues
Many people's different views.
Woman, man, no such plan,
I guess I am my biggest fan!

:) Laurel

Art is Old

2010-11-04T09:43:00.000-07:00

Art traces back to the creation of man. Much of what we know from the ancient world comes from artists' renditions of the events. Wall carvings and paintings, statues, jewelry, pottery, and many other variations of crafts are sometimes all that's left of entire civilizations. This is the inspiration for my original painting of Ahura Mazda.

I was inspired by this ancient zoorastarian god simply because of how he is always depicted, either sprouting his own wings, or sitting in some sort of flying device, high above the heads of the people, in the air. I just love old stuff!

Ciao! Laurel

Homage to my View

2010-10-31T00:50:00.000-07:00

Sometimes my paintings are very literally inspired by the world around me. Such is the case in this plein air study that I finally finished!

Sometimes my paintings get sucked up into that world and I am ultimately inspired by a new way of looking at life.

Usually I am just in awe by the gorgeous art our creator offers us every day.

Ciao! laurel

Halloween Blog Party!

2010-10-16T14:01:00.000-07:00

Halloween is coming up and we're having a Blog Party to celebrate!

For this event I thought I would reminisce on some paintings of mine...

Pieces of Europe become 'What's in My Bag'

2010-10-12T21:41:00.000-07:00

When friends go traveling, you get to live vicariously! That's what's happening on this edition of 'What's in My Bag'. My girlfriend brought back bits and pieces of her voyage, and my visual senses thank her!

When it comes to creating art, you don't always have to spend tons of time working on a piece until you think it's perfect. Sometimes it just takes a minute to sketch something or paste a few images together to jump start your creative juices again. Here's a page from my sketchbook.. Keep on creating! Ciao, Laurel

Impromptu Craft Party Leads to Collage!

2010-09-27T10:31:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I have a little impromptu Craft party.. like anytime a girlfriend comes over!
For this installment I was with my friend who specializes in vintage collage.. so I'm always in the mood to do a collage when I'm with her! Simple, but bold, this girl's got a lot going on...
Ciao! Laurel

Midnight Margaritas for the Practical Magic Blog Party!

2010-09-25T12:36:00.000-07:00

It's time for the Practical Magic Blog Party! Artists from all over the world are participating, including ME!

When I was thinking about what I wanted to do, I watched a clip from the movie and they were having midnight margaritas! I decided I MUST make a tee inspired by this pastime. Just click on the Tee to order, in all sizes and colors!

Follow the Practical Magic Banner to see everyone else who participated in this!

Free Gift for Every Partipant!

2010-09-22T21:08:00.000-07:00

Do you own something Signature Laurel? Enter this challenge to win! ALL participants will receive a FREE print!Just send me a picture of your Signature Laurel item..on your wall, on your body, whatever you got! You do not have to be in the photo if you don't want to.The most artistic entry will receive a special Signature Laurel Grand Prize! Send your picture to laurel@signaturelaurel.com and Have FUN!

Say hello to 'The Queen'

2010-09-16T18:17:00.000-07:00

This is 'The Queen'

acrylic on canvas, 16"x20", 2010

Contact me if you think you can buy her!
Or, click on her to order a print.

Ciao! Laurel

Hand Woven Beaded Bracelets in Every Color

2010-09-01T20:22:00.000-07:00

For you very own hand-woven beaded bracelet, just contact me!
laurel@signaturelaurel.com
Hundreds of styles available.. all made to order.
Anklets, necklaces, and rings also available.

My Design for Ani Difranco!

2010-08-24T14:05:00.000-07:00

Signature Laurel Design for Ani Difranco @ Creative Allie

Please click the link above to vote for this piece!

Purses?!

2010-08-20T18:08:00.001-07:00

I made a new purse this week, and then realized I have made a few purses through the years, so I thought I would share. Here's one from 2005, and the one I just made.. contact me if you want one.. ciao! laurel

City Dream

2010-08-11T15:53:00.000-07:00

If the city could speak, it would sound like the wind,

Caught in between all the structures of stone.

Gale and soft tender the voices within

reminding the dreamer that she is alone.

I love Cherry Blossoms!

2010-07-14T15:29:00.000-07:00

Today I decided to paint something I wanted.. so here it is! More like a design element than an artpiece, to me.. I just wanted something that was calm and peaceful for one of my rooms.

It is still available for purchase though, so contact me and place your bid if you want this one! (these two)!

Ciao! laurel

Could it Be? YES! It's time for 'What's in my Bag'!

2010-07-12T11:24:00.000-07:00

On this installment of 'What's in my Bag', we've got some entertaining entertainment! Thanks to my theatrical friends.. Thanks, theatrical friends! Stay tuned for the next installment of 'What's in my Bag'!

Ciao! -Laurel

A Link to My Jewelry Shop

2010-07-12T08:13:00.000-07:00

For commissioned pieces, please contact me!

Ciao! Laurel

Original Art Pendants Available Now!

2010-06-16T20:55:00.000-07:00

I seem to be starting a Signature Laurel Jewelry Line! It started with rings, and now I'm making pendants! Pendants are available in any of my art pieces, or any photo of your choosing. Order yours today!

Email me: laurel@signaturelaurel.com

In other news, I ate an orange

and picked some herbs from my garden

Ciao!

Kim's Sunset

2010-06-09T15:12:00.000-07:00

I was commissioned to do this piece for lovely Kim on her Bday, and so she owns it!

Happy Birthday Kim! (Kim has awesome friends.)
Do YOU have a friend with a birthday coming up?

Custom Designed Rings are Here!

2010-05-15T19:17:00.000-07:00

I have had this idea for a while, and it's finally time! I am making custom designed rings. Select your favorite painting of mine, OR send me a picture of your choosing and I'll custom design the ring especially for you! You can put your kids on your ring, your pet, your favorite flower, etc.. Rings are only $10, plus shipping and handling. Sizes 5-9. While supplies last.

Email me for yours today! laurel@signaturelaurel.com

Come see me at the ArtWalk!

2010-05-03T00:50:00.000-07:00

Come see me and my art this Saturday at the Long Beach Artwalk!

Signature Laurel Paintings, Prints, Shirts, Magnets, & More..

If you mention this blog you will receive a free gift!

Hope to see you there!

How to Make a Photo Bouquet

2010-04-24T14:57:00.000-07:00

Sure a bulletin board can do the trick, but here's a creative and cheap solution for some of those catch-alls you aquire throughout the year.

Start with a large paperclip.

Using your fingers, straighten it out.

Then with needlenose pliers, or a jewelry tool, make a smaller paperclip at the end.

This will take come primping, but it should look like this..

Clip it to a photo of your choosing.

Then stick the straight end into a large wax candle, or styrofoam base.

Make a few more and you have a photo bouquet to display!

Switch out your photos every week or so, as you acquire new stuff, and don't forget to put the used stuff in a box marked with the year, so you don't let it just fall back on your desk!

My Collection of Famous Quotes: Volume 1

2010-04-10T22:53:00.000-07:00

Never judge a book by its movie.

An artist never really finishes her work, she merely abandons it.

True friendship isn't about being there when it's convenient; it's about being there when it's not.

Just because everything is different doesn't mean anything has changed.

Neither a wise man nor a brave man lies down on the tracks of history to wait for the train of the future to run over him.

Experience is the name every one gives to their mistakes.

Women are like teabags. You don't know how strong they are until you put them in hot water.

Love is a condition in which the happiness of another person is essential to your own.

If only we'd stop trying to be happy we'd have a pretty good time.

Ciao!

Paper Playtime

2010-03-30T12:25:00.001-07:00

I have been so busy lately, and about to unveil a few new paintings, but since I'm still working on them, I decided to post something I did a while back while I was 'playing with paper!'

If you're lonely, bored, have so much to do but just want to sit around and do nothing.. I suggest you play with paper. It's a great way to get the creative juices flowing, and a nice escape from the world you're in. Plus, you really never know what you'll come up with, since it's all dependent on the paper you have to play with! Don't forget to put on some fun music, or listen to a book on tape. Studies have shown that the different types of stimulation you subject your brain to, the more advantages you have for optimal function and longevity. This includes stimulating all the senses, so stir it up! Snack on some colorful fruits or veggies at the same time! Let's see, we've got sight, sound, taste, smell... you get the picture. :)

My new T-shirt Design for March!

2010-03-09T18:17:00.003-08:00

To get this or other SignatureLaurel designs, go to

http://www.redbubble.com/people/signaturelaurel/t-shirts/4789550-2-happy-sun-geisha

or as always, my website!

www.SignatureLaurel.com

Paint your Coffee Table!

2010-02-17T18:55:00.000-08:00

I don't know about you, but my coffee table takes the brunt of life. We eat on it, we drink on it, our parties surround it with fervent conversation. We picked up this table at Goodwill for $10, and as you can see, a lot of paint and patience pays off! I decided to paint it in what my Dad calls a 'Moroccan Tile Style". Yah, I'll take that. If you'd like to commission an original table top for yourself, contact me!

My paintings.. an oldie and something from October

2010-01-18T19:27:00.000-08:00

These two paintings happen to be a couple that will always hang in my home for personal reasons.. For prints go to:

My last pieces of 2009!

2009-12-30T16:42:00.001-08:00

Here are some of my latest pieces, finishing up the year of 2009! I am looking forward to what my imagination will bring for 2010! I have few more I haven't published yet, which will come soon. Please contact me for Prints, Shirts, and much more!

News from my Bag! PS is a standing fixture..

2009-11-24T18:47:00.000-08:00

Dia de los Muertos was a Success!

2009-11-04T18:34:00.000-08:00

Thanks to everyone who came to my Dia de los Muertos Exhibit! It was quite a success, with hundreds of people coming through. You can view the exhibit for the last time tomorrow at the 1st Thursday ArtWalk, for the closing reception. Please come by! Everything in the Exhibit is for sale at 30% off and a portion of the proceeds will benefit underpriveledged women. 447 W. 6th St. San Pedro. Ciao!

Come see my Art Exhibit on Halloween!

2009-10-24T22:49:00.000-07:00

I was invited to Exhibit my Original Works for the Dia De Los Muertos Festival in San Pedro on October 31st! You're all invited!! The address of my Exhibit is 447 W 6th St. Please come to support the arts! Check out the website here: http://www.diadelosmuertossanpedro.com/ Don't forget to dress up!! A portion of the proceeds will go to the Finding Art Center: a non-profit benefitting underprivileged women through education and creativity.

My Donation to La Posada Magica!

2009-09-28T12:44:00.000-07:00

If you know me, you know I hold a BA in Drama, and the theatre is really the place where I feel most at home. My two dear friends both star in the play, La Posada Musica, by Octavio Solas. I wrote about this wonderful musical back when I saw it last year, and it's that time again! This year they are holding a fundraiser for the play, and I happily agreed to donate a painting to the silent auction. If you see the play, you'll know the significance of the painting. Please help support the Theatre! The theatre is one of the hardest things to sustain in a recession, and these artisans can use all the help we can give.

Here's a link to their Facebook page... please help out if you can!

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?profile=1&id=133531574919#/pages/Los-Angeles-CA/La-Posada-Magica/133531574919

MY VERY LAST ARTWALK???

2009-09-17T13:10:00.000-07:00

Summer is over, and the last Artwalk was so much fun, but may be the last for me! I was right in front of the band, which you can see in the photos, and while I sold a ton of little items, I am a weary of lugging my precious paintings around town, only to subject them to depreciation! Don't cry, though! My Gallery is still available for purchase, originals through me directly, or prints at http://signaturelaurel.redbubble.com/works
Thanks to everyone who came out to support me!

SOLD! this week

2009-09-14T12:58:00.000-07:00

This week I sold a t-shirt and two prints! The t-shirt went to someone in Australia, and the Obama prints were sold at the art walk, along with a bunch of hand-painted magnets. Good times! To see any items that are for sale, you know where to go by now... www.signaturelaurel.com

Artwalk this Saturday & Avant-Garde Art Creation

2009-09-08T16:19:00.000-07:00

Come see me at the Artwalk this Saturday in Long Beach!

I've started a brand new RedBubble Group called Avant-Garde Art.
Check it out and join by clicking below.

The Avant-Garde Art Group is a conscious effort to display works by artists all over the world! I created this group specifically to highlight Contemporary Artistry and cultivate relationships between avant-garde artists, a la the Stein siblings. Avant-garde represents a pushing of the boundaries of what is accepted as the norm or the status quo, primarily in the cultural realm.

Beachy Inspiration

2009-09-02T14:31:00.000-07:00

Here they are: the Craft Party Collages! My incredible bohemian girlfriends became my muses that day at the beach, and through all the paper-tearing I thought my efforts would be in vein. Alas, something came out of my indisctinct mess on the table. The essence of the sea permeates when I look at these now, unintended, yet always present in my art it seems! Maybe it's the view that inspires me?

Cooky Tattoos, Craft Party, & Cupcakes!

2009-08-25T09:28:00.000-07:00

We start off today's post with the fabulous mango velvet cupcakes I made for a friend's bday. I usually hate cake but these were yummy! Paula Dean's Red Velvet Recipe sans the food dye, I had a lovely tower of them presented as we sang the birthday song.

My very 1st Ladies' Craft Party was a success! Not only did we have waaaay too much food, but the ideas were flowing as we sat by the sea and created. My girlfriends brought piles of ribbons, fabrics, papers, stickers, books, journals, dolls, feathers, you name it! My house was filled with artifacts from every generation and culture, just ready to be released into obscurity. I was so inspired by what was around me that it took some time to get into my own project, which I was able to finish later.

Impromptu Temporary Tattoo Time! Sometimes I have weird ideas, and this night was inspired by a book about tribal tattoos. Pretty soon my pretty sharpie had found its way onto everyone's skin. Next time use Henna! My arm was black for a week! Toxic? oh well, everyone liked their original Laurel Tattoos!

Stay tuned to see the finished collages that I started at the craft party!

What's in my bag: Vegas Edition!

2009-08-19T15:09:00.000-07:00

Vegas Baby!

and back in LA...

KaBOOKi is 5 years old!

2009-08-11T13:55:00.000-07:00

Thanks to all the beautiful ladies who have fulfilled my life in a way I can not express. I look forward to the next 5 years and onward!

xoxoxoxo, Laurel

Personalized Treasure Books

2009-08-01T00:43:00.000-07:00

Sometimes the simplest ideas are overlooked when we try too hard. We all know that the best gifts are usually the cheapest. These little treasure books are easy, personal, creative, and impressive. Wow your friends by how well you know them. Just pick a theme, staple a few pages together, and paste away!

Nancy Drew Book

Artist Book

Awesome Edibles

2009-07-23T18:13:00.000-07:00

Thanks to my good friend, we were given these chocolates by Chocolee Chocola. We were in awe of their cuteness, & their flavor combinations are tre' unique. The buddha is green tea, and brushed with an irridescent aqua glow. I couldn't help but get a snapshot!

At the last Artwalk I attended, a little girl walked up and gave me 2 different types of tiny plants. I potted them both, and look at the adorable surprise I received..

Life is full of fun when you open your heart to the beauty all around you!
Making skirts from old shirts this week.
What are YOU doing that's artsy??

Update: I WILL NOT BE be at the ArtWalk July 11th.. but it'll still be fun! 4-10pm

2009-07-06T19:34:00.000-07:00

4:00 - 6:00 PM
DJ Paul R
.
6 - 9:30 PM
Paul Dominguez's
and the Number 2 LAOB Duo
Featuring Joey Joel, guitar and vocals.

7:30 - 9:30 PM
Damon Rentie
Jazz
.
and many others
.
***
.Art booths present:
works of art and crafts of local artists
.
5:00PM - 10:30 PM
All local galleries openings
...
New at the Art Walk!
Every time you buy an item at the 2nd Saturday Art Walk you will receive an Art Walk Masterpiece coupon. You can also buy these coupons for $1.00ea at the registration booth. At 9:00 pm the winning coupon will be selected and announced. The winner’s prize is an original Art Walk Masterpiece.
What is the Art Walk Masterpiece?
Between 4:00pm and 8:00pm a live outdoor painting workshop will be open to anyone to participate. Each participant has to bring their own tools and no larger than 8” x 10” painting surface. All media are welcome. At 8:00 pm we will collect the works and submit them to the panel of judges to choose the most creative piece called Art Walk Masterpiece. Best artist will be awarded $75.00. The Art Walk Masterpiece becomes a property of the organizers.

Obama Shirts Have Arrived!!!!

2009-06-25T16:36:00.000-07:00

My t-shirts and other fun items have come in, with my Original Obama Graphic Design!
Shirts are only $15, and I have other fun stuff like Magnets, Postcards, Hats, Etc. Contact me if you're interested. Don't forget.. ALL my original Art Pieces are available in print form for only $10.

In keeping with the theme, here are some of my new Obama Collages. I was sad I didn't take a picture of the one I sold already, but here are some new ones for ya!

CNN Story about The Sketchbook Project which I participated in!

2009-06-22T19:22:00.000-07:00

Here's a link to my Sketchbook
http://http://www.arthousecoop.com/users/SignatureLaurel

and here's the story on CNN about the project.. can you see my book?!

What's in My Bag Collages & my Lilies are in Bloom Again!

2009-06-19T13:47:00.001-07:00

SOLD! At the ArtWalk.. Thanks to all who came!!

2009-06-17T14:27:00.001-07:00

We had a grand turnout for the June ArtWalk! Thanks to all who came, and thanks to my show partner, Louie, who also sold a piece!! Look for us again on July 11th!

I'll be at the Long Beach ArtWalk this Saturday, June 13th!

2009-06-12T12:30:00.000-07:00

4-10pm, come see my Art!!
Linden between Broadway & 1st

'What's in your Bag' Collage #3

2009-06-03T17:34:00.000-07:00

what's in your bag collages continued..

2009-05-28T22:30:00.001-07:00

I had lots of stuff on my desk.. had to get rid of it!

Wishes of Ideas

2009-05-28T13:50:00.000-07:00

I was inspired to do a quick project when I read an article my friend, Teryll sent me by the author of this blog. http://inthewishstudio.blogspot.com/
The idea is to make a fast collage using things found in your bag, or on your desk. I always have little tidbits lying around, so this project is for me. I think I'll do these every so often; it gets the creative juices flowing, and helps preserve special memories!

Magnetic Art

2009-05-26T19:03:00.000-07:00

Yet another outlet for me - Magnets, cute, cheap, fun.

I'm working on an ocean painting. Soon to be seen here. Notice a theme?

2009-05-21T21:47:00.000-07:00

We had a very special artshow this month. Thanks to my Dad, we have a tent to house our 'wares', and thanks to Louie, I always have a partner in 'prime'. The first newcomer to the set was a cute little quartet of handpainted ladybug rocks. On a recent trip to Lake Havasu with my friend Wit, she brought a rock painting book, and we went wild! I painted a ladybug and 'prosperity' in chinese script for Randy, our host, and an elephant for Wit's mom. My favorite part about it all, is, like the elephant, I was able to paint a 3-dimensional being. If you turn the rock you can see his face, his trunk from all angles, the bottom of his 4 feet, his toenails. I started painting rocks, but like all pieces, it takes soo much time, so I started with the ladies. Eventually I will have all kinds of things, but it all takes time, so stay tuned!
The Artshow went well. I sold 2 pieces. One to Gabriel, who has before commisioned "gabriel's tree", and one to a 4 year boy, who next to his parents told me why he loved Obama. It was an Obama piece. 2 of my best gals came & stayed all day, bearing gifts and food. It was FABulous! We shall do it again.. next one is Saturday, June 13th- Linden between Broadway & 1st - Long Beach

I'll be at the Long Beach Art Walk with all my paintings!

2009-05-06T19:09:00.000-07:00

Flapper Jacks

2009-04-24T15:00:00.000-07:00

'Lydia' at the Marin Theatre Company

2009-04-07T17:52:00.000-07:00

We took a trip to San Francisco to see our dear friend, Gloria Garayua in opening night of 'Lydia' by Octavio Solis at the Marin Theatre Company. Gloria plays a young girl suffering from brain damage, and the trials of her family who are doing everything they can to keep it together. Gloria's portrayal of this young woman is joltingly beautiful; both hard to watch and exasperatingly poetic. The beauty and horror of life are entwined as we watch the family unravel in the midst of heartbreak. The show runs until April 12th, so hurry and get tickets while you can! Here's the link: http://www.marintheatre.org/main_stage/main_stage_08-09/lydia.php

and here is a video I found on Gloria's Myspace, which shows scenes from the show.

Thanks to Gloria, Octavio, and the whole cast, who welcomed me with open arms at 4 in the morning! 'Twas a night of fabulous memories!

I sold this before I could post it!

2009-04-06T14:57:00.001-07:00

Inspired by an artpiece I saw on my trip to San Francisco with las chicas to see 'Lydia', post coming soon!

Here are a few more pictures of past sold paintings and their owners:

Come See My Art at the Long Beach Art Walk!

2009-03-09T19:44:00.001-07:00

This is a FREE event with live music, fire dancers, dozen of art booths and open galleries, and ME!

My Sketchbook in this Sketchbook Exhibit!

2009-03-08T22:41:00.000-07:00

Here are some photos from the Opening Night of the Sketchbook Art Tour on 2-27-09 in Atlanta. My sketchbook was one of the one's featured, but I was unable to attend. This exhibit is currently touring the East Coast.

My Newest Creations: Lady and the Hendrix

2009-03-03T21:46:00.000-08:00

Pen & Ink Fun by Laurel!

2009-03-01T15:52:00.000-08:00

Wrists for Obama!

2009-02-16T17:47:00.001-08:00

Isn't it nice to have a President that can inspire people? So many artists have felt compelled to honor the occasion of Obama's inauguration with an original piece or two, and here is no exception. A bracelet by a San Diego based artist found it's way to my wrist, and I got so many comments on it, and enjoyed it so much, I knew I had to write a blurb. Her bracelets are handmade, each its own design. The one pictured here is much different than mine. If you would like to get one, you can contact her @ picarogallery@gmail.com

Tell her Laurel sent you!

History Repeats Itself, Brace Yourself!

2009-02-04T22:07:00.000-08:00

Daily Real Estate News February 4, 2009
It's Been Worse for the U.S. Housing Market Historically, this housing decline has been a bear, but not the worst of the bear housing markets.The Winans International Real Estate Index calculates that new home prices in the United States are down 23 percent since March 31, 2007. New homes sales have fallen 71 percent and new property listings are down 34 percent in the same time period.Sounds bad, but the worst decline of new home prices in the last 150 years was the 68 percent decline from 1929 to 1932. The longest housing bear market was from 1853 to 1858."This bear market will probably not end in 2009. Past real estate bear markets ended when the average time it took to sell a new house dropped to 3 1/2 months. Currently, it is taking over 9 months for transactions to close due to tight credit conditions," says company founder Ken Winans.Source: Winans International (02/03/2009)

Art in the midst of Chaos

2009-01-28T01:09:00.001-08:00

These two pieces were submitted by me for the show entitled "Embracing our Differences" in Florida. While the pieces are not my usual style, they exhibit a piece of me, while trying to conform to the guidlines of the competition. If chosen, they will be displayed in a public park where students and teachers gather to discuss the theme, 'embracing our differences', and how each piece relates to it.

Many hands make peace

Under one sky

I've been Submitting

2009-01-15T19:21:00.001-08:00

Here's what I've been working on...

Submitting my many works for shows across the country!

These are the latest submissions, with many more to come!

If you know of any art contest I might be interested in,

please do let me know about it! Ciao! laurel :)

La Posada Magica at the South Coast REP

2008-12-15T21:27:00.001-08:00

It has been a very long time since a play/musical moved me in such a way, that I said, "yes, this is a GREAT show!" I had no idea what I was in for. I have to admit, I went to the show because two of my friends were in it: Gloria Garayua, playing the lead, Gracie, and Denise Blasor, playing Consuelo and Widow. I may be biased, but there's a reason that Denise has been doing the show for 13+ years, and why Gloria was chosen over so many actresses who would have given anything for the role!

Gloria shines as she begins the journey with a sweet and captivating solo, highlighting her beautiful melodious voice. I was drawn in immediately through the music, and soon was thrust into the journey, la posada, which had so much influence on the character, Gracie, and the audience watching. Denise Blasor plays two roles, and each are so out there, that all I could do was laugh! The most magical part of the play for me was when Caridad and Consuelo came out.. and you have to go see it to know what I mean!!! It was hilarious!!!

I must give props to Sol Castillo, who really enveloped his role. Funny, Charming, Intriguing, he grasped the part of Refugio with vigor. Teresa Velarde was also such a delight. When I met her after the show, I didn't even recognize her! She consumed her role the same way her character consumed the box of See's Candies! Erica Ortega had such a beautiful soprano, that her good heart gave warmth to the whole show. The musicians were all a delight, as they scored the entire show with their fingers on their guitars, something I know can be difficult to do! Marcos Loya, the Musical Director, guided the perfomance with ease.

A special note for Octavio Solas, the playwright and director. I thought this play was soooo well written and sooo well directed, and then when I met Solas, I thought he was just the greatest gentlemen, and such an intriguing mind. We spoke about literature, and I told him I knew he would have packed shows, because this show is brilliant, hilarious, and magical! I cried 6 times thanks to Gloria Garayua, and I laughed hysterically the whole time thanks to the entire cast. 10 stars!

For more information go to: http://www.scr.org/season/08-09season/posada08.asp#slideshow

Playwright:SCR Associate Artist Octavio Solis

Cast:

Denise Blasor - Consuela/Widow

Danny Bolero - Papi/Jose Cruz

Sol Castillo - Refugio/Buzzard

David DeSantos - Eli/Bones/Lauro

Gloria Garayua - Gracie
Marcos Loya - Musician/Ensemble

Lorenzo Martinez - Musician/Ensemble

Miguel Najera - Horacio

Erica Ortega - Mariluz/Mom

Teresa Velarde - Caridad/Widow

Creative Team:

Christopher Acebo - Scenic Design

Shigeru Yaji - Costume DesignLonnie

Rafael Alcaraz - Lighting Design
Marcos Loya - Musical Director

Gabriela Estrada - Choreographer

Nicholas C. Avila - Assistant Director

Come see my Art @ the Long Beach Art Walk!

2008-12-10T12:47:00.001-08:00

Come See Me and My Art @ the Long Beach Art Walk!
Saturday, December 13th _ 4pm-10pm
Linden Av. Between 1st & Broadway in Long Beach
All of my original paintings on sale
MANY BRAND NEW PAINTINGS!!!
Say the magic word, “century 21 hollywood” and you get 10% Off!!
Live Music, Art, Fire Dancers, and multiple art galleries open, all FREE FUN!

for more info. visit http://www.artwalklb.com/

Robert's Kite

2008-11-28T15:41:00.000-08:00

My Band in the Paper

2008-11-22T09:50:00.000-08:00

A Few New Pieces

2008-11-21T00:08:00.000-08:00

This one I did for my upcoming show for Dia De Los Muertos! Details on the show coming later! (16x20)

This one was commissioned by Gabrielle (16x20):