Here’s a tour of the show: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1VIdg3TbFr8&ab_channel=LaurenRader
This past weekend I had one of the most meaningful showings of my art career. As part of a neighborhood art walk I hung my paintings on my house and all around my front yard (something I’ve never done before).
This body of work has two components: Response to Our Times, and Finding Solace. My art is always a very personal expression of what I’m feeling in my life, but because we have all been feeling so many of the same emotions since 2016 (the start of this work), the experience of sharing it is even more poignant. It was truly amazing to share this work this spring as people are beginning to gather more outdoors.
Here’s one interaction I will always remember: We’d just completed getting the work up when my mail carrier came through the yard, looking at the work as he walked. I said he was more than welcome to take it in, if he had the time. He stayed a while and we discussed the work and the power of creativity and art. He had such an immediate, deep understanding and appreciation of the work. With his USPS mask on and his blue eyes sparkling, it was such a meaningful conversation for me — about art and about what we’ve all been through. He told me he used to make art, and seeing the show, after work he planned to go buy some paints to start painting again.
I work alone in my studio. And then one day it’s out in my front yard for everyone to see! Over 100 people came through this weekend.
So much more to say and think about this, but I think that’s good for now. Here’s a video tour I did of the show. Please ask questions or comment. I’d love the conversation to continue.
Thank you,
Lauren
If you’re interested in purchasing any of the work you see, please email me at laurenraderart.com, comment, or private message me. (Some of the work has already been sold) You can also see more of my work and other offerings here: www.LaurenRaderArt.com
