Today we’d like to introduce you to Lori Landry.
Every artist has a unique story. Can you briefly walk us through yours?
Growing up, I was fortunate to have had a lot of exposure to artists and their works as my parents enjoyed collecting modern and abstract art and my mom was an interior designer. I used to sketch, play creatively, took art classes growing up and in college, but certainly never thought of myself as an artist. In my 20’s I was introduced to expressive arts therapy, which continued to pull the thread of appreciation for creativity as it provided a space for freedom and release and a way to gain new perspectives through creative expression. Life threw me a few curve balls and I found myself reexamining and finding meaning through the authenticity of art expression. I spent several years doing personal “depth work” as a way to understand and find new awareness. During this time, I received a Master’s degree in Counseling Depth Psychology and an Expressive Arts certification, and began working with clients professionally. As I witnessed positive outcomes in my practice, I was then called to dive deeper into my own creativity. I began painting privately as a way of connecting with Spirit, processing, exploring and trusting my intuition. My internal fire was lit, and I took painting workshops and worked with successful artists in Laguna Beach and Southern California. Their encouragement to get my work out into the world was the nudge that led me to begin exhibiting and selling my paintings. I now realize how blessed I am to have experienced what I did and how very grateful I am for having found my passion and true calling to paint.
Please tell us about your art.
I paint contemporary abstract pieces using acrylic for the most part and some mixed media. My art expression comes from a place of honor and holding sacred the wisdom within, the process of depth work, the power of images, the stories the images tell and the mystery in the unfolding of creativity. Art to me is a beautiful, vulnerable expression of the self – requiring the ego to step aside and trusting the psyche and spirit. I believe there is a power and wisdom within our spirit and creative flow can guide us to align with our best life. My creative process begins with grounding, deepening and reflective journaling on the canvas. I then apply layers of paint using a variety of tools, then apply and remove color as I allow myself to be organically led. I am inspired by nature and emotion – things our conscious minds may not initially notice or appreciate. For me, creating art is an opportunity for mindfulness, for courageously embracing life and allowing the canvas to be a platform where all can be expressed and revealed.
What do you think about conditions for artists today? Has life become easier or harder for artists in recent years? What can cities like ours do to encourage and help art and artists thrive?
With all that is happening in the world today, in my mind, the core role of artists has not really changed. Artists continue to be beacons of inspiration, risk takers in expression and creative originalists. But the “industry” of art has certainly changed – from the physical to the online world, thanks to technology. The web and social media have made art more accessible for everyone and exponentially increased artists’ opportunities for exposure – both great consequences. But as an artist who paints on canvas, the physical element is tremendously important. You can see an image of an artist’s piece on say, Instagram, and it may strike a chord with you or stimulate an emotion. When that actual piece is in your home or office, I believe that chord can become an inner resonance, and that emotion can expand into a powerful awakening.
How or where can people see your work? How can people support your work?
The vast majority of my work can be seen on my website at LoriLandry.com, but I do have current pieces on display at the Thomas Lavin Showroom at the Laguna Design Center.
Contact Info:
- Address: 2725 Via Vistosa
San Clemente, CA 92672 - Website: www.lorilandry.com
- Phone: 8582291629
- Email: lorilandryart@gmail.com
- Instagram:@lorilandryart
- Facebook:@lorilandryfineart
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