Today we’d like to introduce you to Desiree Lawrence.
Desiree, we’d love to hear your story and how you got to where you are today both personally and as an artist.
I started my art journey at the age of eleven when my grandma bought me a sketchbook and some art pencils for my birthday. I tried to teach myself with how to draw artbooks for a year, until I took my first art class. When I was twelve, I got into my first painting class at Balboa Park not knowing what was in store for me. In that class I created my first real art piece that I was proud of. I painted the Balboa Park Tower next to the Museum of Man, only using primary colors. With my first real masterpiece being completed, art became something fun to me, because of just how much I enjoyed drawing and painting the architecture. My passion grew immensely after that first class. I wanted to continue to learn more about art, so I continued to take art classes and was able to join The Art Kids Of San Diego at the age of fourteen. The Art Kids introduced me to many opportunities where I could use my creativity, as well as to fuel my passion for art. The Art Kids’ director at the time, Howard Woodward, taught me the joy of being an artist through painting techniques, mural paintings, and participating in art events. I have been part of the Art Kids of San Diego ever since. Now, I am currently an instructor with The Art Kids sharing with future artists the joy of making art.
I honestly never thought art could have taken me this far in life because I only saw it as a hobby at the beginning. Later, it developed into an overwhelming passion. It became a necessity in my life. Creating art is a way for me to express myself, a way to reach my happy place, and to just feel free to create anything. I enjoy sharing with others my view of the world through my imagination.
We’d love to hear more about your art. What do you do you do and why and what do you hope others will take away from your work?
Ever since I was introduced to mythical, surrealistic, and metaphorical paintings, I grew to love using my imagination. The top artists that influences my work today are Vladimir Kush, Daniel Merriam, Marissa Quinn, Zoe Keller, and Lauren Marx. I enjoy combining two subjects into one in my drawings or paintings. For example, I like to draw animals such as tortoises and combine them with a unique plant or architectural feature. Just imagine having this mythical creature existing. My job as an artist it to create something that isn’t truly real and bring it to life through a drawing.
I allow my imagination to be a way for me to escape my reality. I get to freely put anything that I want on paper without any judgment. Some of my work can be personal, since it can relate to my growth in life. Most importantly, I want to give the audience a different perspective of how to look at things when it comes to animals or nature. My artwork takes on a different perspective of the world and shows the true beauty of unity in all things.
How can artists connect with other artists?
The best way to connect with other artists is by taking art classes. I met many amazing artists attending The Art Kids Of San Diego, and at San Diego City College. The best part about meeting people in class is that we all help, inspire, and support one another with our art. Other advice I’ll share with an artist is to visit galleries and art shows that interest you. These events are the best places to meet other aspiring artists. Not only will you find inspiration and likeminded artists, but you may also have the opportunity to meet the artist who inspires your creativity. Being around other artists helps to feed our creative souls, motivates us to get out of our comfort zone, and can help get over our artist block. When meeting artists try not to lose contact with them because they can turn out to be a great friend and someone who you would want to make art with.
Do you have any events or exhibitions coming up? Where would one go to see more of your work? How can people support you and your artwork?
The best place where people can view my artwork is on Instagram. Instagram is where I get to share many of my creations with the world, updates on my current projects, and a place where I can announce future art events that I’ll participate in. So, take a look at my Instagram @desireelawrenceart for the latest updates on future events!
Contact Info:
- Email: deslaw95@gmail.com
- Instagram: @desireelawrenceart
Image Credit:
Breanna Hubbard
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