Interview
Laura Jay
Laura's work explores the intricate dance between urban environments and nature, capturing their evolution through painting and photography. Utilizing a vibrant palette, dynamic compositions, and blacklight-reactive paints, she creates art that tells two narratives - one under natural light and another in the dark - highlighting the tension and harmony between human-made structures and the natural world. Her photography complements this vision, capturing art, music, architectural structures, and landscapes with an eye for storytelling and interconnected themes. Together, these mediums reflect the beauty and complexity of cityscapes and organic landscapes.
Her creative journey has been shaped by a deep connection to the entertainment industry, which influences both the content and presentation of her work. From operating a lighting board for off-Broadway productions at age 11 to managing artists full-time since 2000, these experiences have informed her use of light, texture, and dynamic visuals. Laura studied architecture and modern literature in Columbus, Ohio, before earning a bachelor’s degree in Multimedia and Graphic Design from DeVry University, where she graduated at the top of her class. She is currently completing her MFA in Fine Art at Full Sail University, with graduation set for 2025. After overcoming an 18-year creative block at age 50, she rediscovered painting as a form of self-therapy, while photography remains a vital tool for capturing the beauty of interconnected worlds. Through immersive, multilayered artistic experiences, the aim is to celebrate the unity within contrast and inspire others to see the extraordinary in both urban and natural realms.
What is your background and how did you start your journey in the art world?
“My journey as an artist has been shaped by a lifelong belief that creativity knows no age. From my early years immersed in the entertainment industry and the arts between Columbus, Ohio, and New York City, to my explorations of grand gardens and historical architecture, I've always found inspiration in the beauty of the world around me. The raw energy of NYC’s underground art scene fueled my passion for pushing creative boundaries, while the elegance and stories held in architecture and landscapes deepened my artistic perspective. These experiences remind me that the spark to create can ignite at any stage in life, and I strive to reflect this timeless inspiration in my work.”
What inspires you?
“I am both a painter and photographer, constantly inspired by the interplay of visual mediums. My artistic journey has been shaped by growing up between Columbus, Ohio, and New York City, where I immersed myself in the entertainment world and the underground art scene. NYC's raw creative energy drove my passion for pushing boundaries, while my explorations of grand gardens and historical architecture nurtured my love for design and storytelling. Through my paintings and photographs, I strive to capture emotion, movement, and the narratives hidden in everyday life, reflecting my belief that the drive to create is timeless and can flourish at any age.”
What themes do you pursue? Is there an underlying message in your work?
“My work explores themes of contrast and connection. I delve into the intricate dance between urban environments and the natural world, capturing the flux and evolution of these realms. Through bold colors and dynamic compositions, I highlight the tension and harmony between chaos and order, structure and fluidity. The underlying message in my art is an invitation for viewers to contemplate the beauty and complexity of the world around them. I encourage them to find their own interpretations and connections, celebrating the interplay between human-made structures and the organic environment. My recent work has been deeply inspired by the possibilities of blacklight art. I love the way it allows me to tell alternate stories within a single piece—layering emotions, perspectives, and hidden narratives that only reveal themselves under certain conditions. It feels like magic, transforming the art into something dynamic and alive. Through this medium, I explore contrasts between light and shadow, seen and unseen, inviting viewers to uncover the hidden worlds and stories waiting beneath the surface. It's a way for me to connect with the idea that there's always more to discover - both in art and in life.”
How would you describe your work?
“My work is a journey through layers of emotion, perspective, and storytelling. As a painter and photographer, I love using different mediums to create depth and contrasts. Recently, I've been drawn to blacklight art, where I explore the dynamic relationship between seen and unseen elements. My goal is to create pieces that evoke curiosity, connect with viewers on a deeper level, and remind them there's always more to discover - both within the art and within themselves.”
Which artists influence you most?
“My work is deeply influenced by the artists who have shaped my understanding of creativity and expression. C. Wilkinson's impressionistic style inspires me with their mastery of light, texture, and emotional depth - elements I strive to bring into my own pieces. Pablo Picasso's fearless approach to innovation and his ability to reinvent himself across various periods push me to explore new techniques and perspectives, such as my recent work with blacklight art. Their combined influence reminds me to embrace both the raw emotion and bold experimentation that make art truly transformative.
Along with C. Wilkinson and Pablo Picasso, Jackson Pollock has had a profound impact on my artistic perspective. His pioneering approach to abstract expressionism and his signature drip technique inspire me to embrace spontaneity and movement in my work. Pollock's ability to convey raw emotion and energy through his art resonates deeply with my exploration of layered storytelling, particularly in my recent ventures with blacklight art. His fearless experimentation reminds me to push boundaries and trust the process, allowing the art itself to guide the narrative. Each of these influences fuels my passion for creating pieces that evoke curiosity and uncover hidden dimensions. My artistic vision is also deeply shaped by my immersion in low light and music. The interplay of shadows and subtle illumination sparks my creativity, allowing me to explore depth, mystery, and the hidden narratives within my work. Music, with its rhythm, emotion, and ability to tell stories, is another key influence—I often find that it fuels my imagination and guides the atmosphere of my pieces. Whether it's the moody tones of low light or the dynamic energy of a melody, these elements inspire me to create art that resonates on multiple sensory levels, inviting viewers to feel and experience rather than just see.”
“My work is a journey through layers of emotion, perspective, and storytelling. As a painter and photographer, I love using different mediums to create depth and contrasts.”
What is your creative process like?
“My creative process thrives in the soft glow of candlelight, where the flickering flames create a calming and intimate atmosphere. The low light allows me to connect deeply with my instincts, guiding my hand as I instinctively select colors that feel right in the moment. Music often plays in the background, infusing the space with rhythm and emotion, while I work intuitively, letting my surroundings and emotions shape the direction of each piece. Whether it's painting or photography, my process is about layering stories, exploring contrasts, and trusting the flow of inspiration to guide me.”
What is an artist’s role in society and how do you see that evolving?
“An artist's role in society is to reflect, challenge, and connect. Through my work, I aim to capture the stories, emotions, and layers that make us human - whether through painting, photography, or my recent exploration of blacklight art. I believe art has the power to hold up a mirror to society, sparking conversations and encouraging introspection. As an artist, I see myself as a storyteller, someone who reveals both the seen and unseen, inviting viewers to uncover the hidden narratives within my pieces. For me, authenticity is key. Abstract art allows me to express truths that can't always be conveyed literally, while the interplay of candlelight, color, and texture helps me connect with my instincts and choose elements that feel honest and raw.
Music inspires my creative flow, and blacklight art gives me a way to tell alternate stories through a single medium - emphasizing the idea that there’s always more to discover beneath the surface. I see the role of artists evolving in profound ways. With technology and social platforms, artists now have the tools to share their work globally, breaking down barriers and reaching wider audiences. There's also a growing focus on art as activism, with creators addressing critical issues like climate change, inequality, and mental health. As we move forward, I believe artists will continue to explore inclusivity and innovation, shaping culture both in physical spaces and virtual realms. My goal is to contribute to this dialogue by creating art that evokes curiosity, challenges perspectives, and connects people through shared experiences.”
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Have you had any noteworthy exhibitions you'd like to share?
“In a previous exhibition that I found truly noteworthy, I created an immersive experience that combined performance music with a live painting setup. The dynamic interaction between the music and the creative process captivated audiences, adding a spontaneous and emotional layer to the event. Guests were able to witness the evolution of my art in real time, connecting with the energy and atmosphere as it unfolded. Building on this success, my upcoming exhibition will incorporate professional-grade blacklight lighting to elevate the experience further. Blacklight art allows me to reveal alternate narratives and hidden dimensions within my work, creating an interactive and multi-sensory environment for attendees. This addition enhances the connection between the art, music, and audience, ensuring an unforgettable experience that immerses viewers in both the seen and the unseen. It’s a testament to my commitment to pushing creative boundaries and providing moments of discovery and inspiration.”
