Unleashing Creativity with Mixed Media: The Art of Laura Randall

Unleashing Creativity with Mixed Media: The Art of Laura Randall

We are delighted to introduce you to Laura Randall, a Connecticut artist whose work is as unique as it is captivating. With years of experience creating art from a variety of mediums, she has crafted her own signature style that often involves textures and mixed media. Laura‘s art is a celebration of the beauty and the power of creativity. In this exclusive interview, you will get to know her better and learn more about her creative process.

Mixed media art by Laura Randall.

What inspired you to pursue a career in the arts?

I have loved art since early childhood, drawing and painting quite often. I still have a fond memory of making cutouts of fairies and hiding them between the houseplant leaves. My parents transferred me to a vocational art school in the 6th grade and continued my studies there until high-school graduation.

Who are your biggest artistic influences?

There is a lot to learn from all the great, classical artists and art pieces but surrealism and fantasy art truly sparked my admiration and excitement for art. Some of my favorite artists are Bosch, Dali, Frank Frazetta, Boris Vallejo and perhaps, the most fascinating, HR Giger.

Music is always inspirational as well. I can’t work or create without some sort of music in the background.

CT artist Laura Randall uses a variety of media to create her pieces.

What has been the most rewarding aspect of your work?

The most rewarding aspect of my work, first of all, is noticing that someone out there (real people!!), likes my work! There’s also a wonderful feeling seeing a work come to life and being complete.

How has your work evolved over time?

I started with drawing, painting and clay modeling. Later on, there was a need to experiment with different mediums and textures, often in the same work. So I suppose mixed media is my main form of creation. Mixing clay, paints, paper, etc. Sometimes, recycled items are added like old computer parts, and other old items that provide an interesting texture overall. I really enjoy colors with textures.

3D art by Laura Randall

What advice would you give to aspiring artists?

Please do not give up. The most important part is for YOU to enjoy what you’re doing. And don’t take a break from art for countless years. Time and practice can offer you a lot of skill and experience. This is exactly what I did, giving up for years and now I regret it.

How does your creative process work?

It usually starts with music in order to set the tone for a new idea. I spend many hours just thinking about a new project, although most of the time I follow an intuitive creation process and go with the flow. My works are purely imaginary, the clay portraits faces are imaginary as well. I’m not great following picture references so it’s better to completely skip them and create a “refuge in imaginary worlds”.

Sometimes everything looks nice from the very beginning and other times, starting all over seems to be the best way. When working with 3D elements and paints combined, a lot of things can change as the days go by.

One of the many unique and wonderful pieces by Laura Randall.

What is the most challenging part of being an artist?

The most challenging part is finding the right audience and finding the courage to show your work. Also socializing can be intimidating, for example, it’s so frightening sometimes, my limbs would shake! All you can do is try to ignore it and try to push yourself.

How do you stay motivated and inspired?

I see art, imagining and creating as a soul therapy. Keeping the mind and hands busy is rewarding enough in order to feel motivated.

Laura Randall has many pieces for sale at The Connecticut Art Gallery.

Can you tell us about a recent project you’ve been working on?

There are many unfinished works laying around on shelves. At the moment I’m planning to completely modify an older canvas and give it a rusty color feel. I love the rust textures and the colors of tarnished metal.

How do you manage your time and prioritize your tasks?

During the weekdays, mornings are reserved for coffee and art, until around noon. After that, it’s time for cooking and house chores. During the weekend I love spending the entire time with my family.

CT artist, Laura Randall, posing with some of her incredible works of art.

What do you hope to achieve in the future with your work?

I don’t really have an ultimate goal. Maybe having a room of some sort reserved only for working and for the art supplies. That would be way better than working on the kitchen table, half the table to be more precise. Maybe overcome personal difficulties and find the courage to meet more people. Regarding my art, I hope my skills will improve because there’s always room for improvement and knowledge. Otherwise I’ll continue creating, as long as I’ll be able to.

Find more on Laura Randall, as well as some of her art, at The Connecticut Art Gallery website at www.theconnecticutartgallery.com.

Lori Lebel at Art Show

Lori Lebel has been an artist since she was 11 years old, selling her first oil painting at 13 and becoming the first recipient of the Young Achievers Award by Johnson and Johnson with a hallway dedicated to young achievers following her exhibit there.

After taking a break from art to focus on family, Lori began painting again in 2016, combining her passion for music and art, and created her “Icon Series”.

This series portrays black and white shadow art of musicians and people of influence. Lori currentl y serves as Executive Director of the Connecticut Art Gallery. When not in the art studio, Lori writes for Positive News For You, reading, and spending time with her boyfriend, her two young adult children, and her two fur babies, Koda and Phoebe.