Today we’d like to introduce you to Laura Rath.
Laura, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I’ve been a lifelong lover of art and creative pursuits. In fact, I first had the opportunity to show my artwork when I was just 5 years old when the local library allowed me to fill their display cases with paper sculptures I’d been making. Throughout my youth, I was continually drawn to opportunities that allowed me to create. I’ve always loved going to museums to see work by my favorite artists, and I’ve always been eager to learn more about art and art history, especially the French Impressionists. I enthusiastically studied the French language throughout high school and into college, and I’ve been able to travel extensively in France (and to other European countries) to visit the places that inspired the painters I’ve long admired. Being an artist really ties together so many pieces of my story and who I am. During my adult years, I was an elementary school teacher before transitioning to my most important role of raising 4 sons along with my husband, Tim. It was during this time that I discovered my passion for oil painting after enrolling in classes at a local art center. In the years that have followed, I’ve experienced significant growth as an artist while exploring some breathtaking places and meeting some amazing people. I truly feel blessed that I get to do something I love.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
Being an independent artist certainly comes with its own set of challenges. The biggest challenge is getting out of my comfort zone. Sometimes I find myself with a project or in an environment that feels intimidating. There’s a lot of vulnerability that comes with being an artist and putting your work out there for the world to see. Art is so subjective, and we all have different opinions about it. But I learn and grow each time I step out and push myself to share my work and meet new people. Additionally, I think another practical challenge is time management. Many days, I just want to paint, but there are many other art-related tasks that also need to be done. Framing, ordering supplies, social media posts, looking for inspiration- it all takes time. It’s all important, and I’m getting better at balancing it all. But some days, I have to be intentional to prioritize the act of painting more than the business side of things because that’s the part I love most.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar, what can you tell them about what you do?
Essentially, I could be described as an impressionist landscape oil painter, but I believe what sets me apart is the authenticity I bring to each painting. Most of my paintings capture a real moment from a real experience that is part of a story, and those stories are what make them meaningful. Many times, I have personally traveled somewhere, taken a photo, and been inspired to paint it. I love sharing my passion for the places I paint with people who buy those pieces. Other times, I create meaningful art that tells the stories of others. When buyers hang art they’ve commissioned me to paint, they are displaying more than something they enjoy seeing- they’re displaying something they love to remember! And every time they show their painting to someone else, they have another opportunity to tell their story.
In a technical sense, what characterizes my work is my heavy use of texture. When I create a composition, I’m not just painting, but I imagine that I’m sculpting with paint as I apply it. I layer thick amounts of paint on the canvas to create elements of the scene that literally stand out from the rest. I love the look when thickly applied paint dries, especially when different colors are combined, forever capturing the movement of the brush and bristles. There’s a fluid quality to it that I find appealing.
Additionally, all of my oil paintings are original works of art. I do not sell prints, so when you own one of my pieces, you own something that is truly one of a kind.
Because my primary interest lies in impressionism and post-impressionism art, I’ve chosen to visit and find inspiration in many of the same places that captured the hearts of the master painters. Many of my compositions include quaint European scenes of countryside and small towns, with a particular focus on France. But inspiration can truly be found anywhere if you take the time to look around, and I love finding new places to paint!
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
It’s really valuable to surround yourself with other artists who can challenge you to grow and give encouragement along the way. I’ve found it helpful to join local art organizations and participate in events and classes at local art centers to continue to build relationships and meet new artists, and I try to introduce myself to other artists and ask questions about their art whenever possible. Be willing to help others and share what you know with them, too! Everyone benefits when we cooperate and encourage each other.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.laurarathart.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/laura_rath_fine_artist/
Image Credits
Tim Rath
Laura Rath
