Epiphanies of an ArtGirl: The Art of Lauri Grimshaw-Cox
Lauri Grimshaw-Cox believes in self- Empowerment and joy through creativity.
Her creations share a love of vivid, bright colors,whimsy and spontaneity with the viewer. She loves to mix things up a bit and to think a bit “outside of the box”. Striving to create art works full of fun and color and that will be treasured keepsakes. We asked Lauri to share a little about her art works with our readers and what inspires her.
When did you first realize that you had a talent for art?
I knew I liked to create things in my younger years; gluing together doll cloths made from scraps and I loved sewing. I always loved the craft projects I did in the church I went to. I loved my art classes in school. As a child and teen it never occurred to me to get consumed in it and I had no idea someone could make a living from being creative.
Why this particular style of art? What drew you to this particular style?
My style has evolved in the past several years to bring me to what I do now. I prefer to use non matching colors and find they all go together in an amazing way. I love that I can use different methods, products and ideas to create my treasures, the only limits are my own. My art allows imperfection, so that allows me to not be stressed about perfect details, and I find the imperfections make it more unique
Who was instrumental in helping you to discover this talent?
My husband, he supported me with the idea, the money to buy my supplies, the space to be able to create them and he was my 1st real fan. He didn’t think twice when I decided I wanted to do shows to sell my work ,and never said “mmmm, do you think someone will really want to pay that price for that item?” My mom has always been impressed and inspired by my creations too, but as a child it wasn’t necessarily promoted or nurtured.
What do you think sparked the desire to just “go for it”?
My husband said “Go for it, if that’s what you love to do.” I had watched my mom do craft shows and farmers markets for years, and initially had zero interest in it, but one day I must have seen the joy in it….and the money making potential. The seed was planted long before I actually decided to do it.
What is your greatest challenge in creating an image (or recycled or up-cycled product)?
My challenge is being able to try new things while producing a ton of work for shows, boutiques and galleries. I tend to be in production mode rather than play mode a lot of the time, so it inhibits me from advancing my style at times unless I allow myself a real “play”day. Space is also a challenge to really do ALL the things I want to do.
What are the greatest joys you get from your work?
I LOVE to see reactions to my work. I love to know someone purchased something for themselves,or to give away to a friend or family member and that it is a treasured item. I love to see people go “OHH Look at this!!” I love when people say “You are my soul sister, you said everything I am feeling inside”
How long have you been doing this type of work?
I have been a professional artists since 2002 and my work has continually evolved to bring me to my style I am recognized for.
What inspires you the most?
Oh, definitely other artists and especially artists who are making a good living at it. My amazing heartfelt and inspirational sayings and words also get me excited to make the perfect piece to accompany the thoughts and ideas expressed through the words and phrases.
What types of awards have you received?
Just Kudos…no official awards. I would never seek out competitions because I stray from competitive businesses, there is room for ALL of us.
Where can folks find your artwork?
Etsy, and a several beautiful local boutiques/stores in Utah
What new plans do you have for upcoming artworks?
Larger higher end pieces and to focus on my creative workshops, SOul UnLeashed! I love to teach woman and teen girls my simple techniques to create beautiful things.
Visit Lauri’s Etsy Shop at:http://www.etsy.com/shop/artgirl69
Visit Lauri’s Blog here:www.EpiphaniesOfAnArtgirl.blogspot.com
