Interview
Lauren Burroughs
Lauren Burroughs is a mixed media artist, aspiring author and illustrator. Based in Gastonia, NC, Lauren has been crafting art for over 20 years, bringing light to everyday scenes through her surreal portraits, captivating animal figures, and magical landscapes. With a love for the mysterious, she occasionally conjures up spooky dreamscapes that send delightful shivers down the spine. Lauren’s work is deeply rooted in her connection to nature. Her art is a journey of self-reflection, exploration, and connection to the world around her, inspired by her adventurous hikes and the fascinating people and animals she meets - especially her majestic goat companion, Louie, who has inspired many of her animal illustrations. In 2019, Lauren moved to North Carolina to be close to family while welcoming her first child and raising her family. Now, as her son grows older, she’s ready to dive back into the art world and share her vision with others.
In addition to her work as an artist, Lauren has a rich background in art education. She has worked as an art instructor at Bright Horizons Bellevue in Bellevue, WA, introducing infants through Pre-K children to the arts through sensory play, developing fine motor skills, cognitive development, two-dimensional and three-dimensional projects, and an appreciation for art history. Lauren also taught at the Tacoma Art Museum in Tacoma, WA, where she shared the museum’s collections and exhibitions with visitors. Every Sunday, she hosted a morning art class open to all ages and read children’s books in the afternoon to inspire both reading and art for kids. A master of mixed media, Lauren’s creative arsenal includes oil and acrylic paints, oil pastels, watercolors, pens, pencils, charcoal, ink washes, and markers. With these tools, she crafts dynamic scenes that reflect her love for nature and the magical.
What is your background and how did you start your journey in the art world?
“I have a background in art education, specifically teaching preschool children the foundational skills needed to explore art for themselves. This included sensory play, shapes, colors, and activities that developed their fine motor skills. It’s truly a beautiful sight to witness someone so young taking their first steps into the art world. It’s like capturing the first moments of a baby walking or hearing a child’s first words. These precious moments are significant because art has the power to help our brains release emotions and connect to the world around us. As for my personal art journey, it started about 20 years ago. Out of curiosity, I decided to take a few art courses, and I quickly fell in love with how art made me feel. I’ve always enjoyed learning and exploring, but something clicked when I connected the visual imagery in my mind to a physical medium like a canvas. That connection felt natural and transformative, igniting a lifelong passion for creativity.”
What inspires you?
“Where to start? Everything! Nature is one of my greatest inspirations. Being outdoors, hiking, and breathing in fresh air compel me to return to my studio and translate those experiences into vibrant, energetic landscape paintings. I’m also inspired by people. Everyone has unique thoughts and abilities, which is why I love creating portraits that reflect their inner essence. Animals deeply fascinate me as well. Their connection to the earth and the wildness of their nature spark curiosity and admiration. My pet goat Louie was my all-time favorite creature. He was the kindest, silliest companion, and when he passed away, I started a side project in his honor - a children’s book that I’m writing and illustrating. It combines my fine art skills, my knowledge of working with young children, and my love for Louie. While the book is still in progress, it’s an exciting journey that blends all my passions.”
What themes do you pursue? Is there an underlying message in your work?
“The themes I explore include: Nature and landscapes are infused with vibrant energy and colors. Portraits of people that reveal the essence of their inner worlds. Animal art that portrays the powerful dominance or gentle spirit of each creature. At the heart of my work lies an evolving narrative that bridges life, dreams, imagination, and spirituality. Each piece contributes to growth and transformation, both for myself and those who connect with it. Art, for me, is a foundation anyone can tap into at any moment in their lives, discovering a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them. I hope to inspire others to maintain their sense of wonder and find meaning in the complex yet harmonious intersection of life’s simplicity and depth.”
How would you describe your work?
“I would describe my work as raw and closely tied to the source of the subject matter I’m focusing on. Each piece carries its own narrative, sparking a conversation between the viewer and the artist. The colors I use often evoke a sense of emotion or growth, with my work leaning towards a surreal and almost haunting quality. Over the years, I’ve experimented with different techniques, often weaving humor into my pieces to balance the more serious undertones. It’s a way to keep my childlike nature alive.”
Which artists influence you most?
“Gustav Klimt, Frida Kahlo, Maxfield Parrish, Edvard Munch, Vincent Van Gogh, Mary Cassatt, and Robert Crumb are some of the artists who influence me the most. There are countless others, but these are my top favorites.”
“Nature is one of my greatest inspirations. Being outdoors, hiking, and breathing in fresh air compel me to return to my studio and translate those experiences into vibrant, energetic landscape paintings.”
What is your creative process like?
“My creative process is strongly anchored in what I know and love. I draw on my experiences, passions, curiosity, and personal stories to create art that not only expresses myself but also invites others to reflect on their own journeys and inner worlds.”
What is an artist’s role in society and how do you see that evolving?
“An artist's role is to help awaken society. Art holds the power to connect us visually, revealing meaning in the overlooked and uncovering the hidden. Artists can guide people through emotional depths or into the raw, untamed beauty of nature. They help others rediscover their imagination, reignite their passions, and nurture the fire of curiosity that keeps us growing and evolving.”
Have you had any noteworthy exhibitions you'd like to share?
“In 2014, I show-cased my work at The OK Hotel Gallery in Downtown Seattle, WA. Located in Old Town Seattle, the gallery brings together artists to build a strong sense of community. I was honored to be chosen as the main artist to display my work throughout the main floor as visitors visited the gallery. Considering the number of talented artists who applied for that spot, it was a humbling experience. In 2019, I participated in the Olympia Arts Walk in Olympia, WA. This event was larger, filling the streets with artists and art lovers of all ages. It included a parade, and I participated in a live painting event at the Old Steam Plant downtown. My artwork was displayed throughout the entire Steam Plant building, making it an unforgettable experience for me as an artist.”
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