We recently connected with Laura Valkwitch and have shared our conversation below.

Laura, appreciate you joining us today. Do you wish you had started sooner?

Although I wish I could have started my art career earlier, I am happy with how my life experiences have shaped my artistic journey. Starting a family in my early 20’s was hectic, but I do not regret it for a moment. Now that my kids are older, I am able to dedicate more time to my art, and it is exciting to encourage and cultivate their own artistic passions.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I am a multidisciplinary artist and instructor residing and working near Buffalo, New York. My primary mediums of expression are oil painting and woodburning.

Currently, I am deeply inspired by the breathtaking majesty of the lake affect clouds in Western New York. Through my ongoing series of cloud paintings, I aim to capture the stunning diversity and spontaneous grace of these ethereal formations. Overall, my art is a celebration of the immense beauty that surrounds us, and my work is fueled by a lifelong fascination with the transcendent qualities of the natural world

I began woodburning during a difficult and emotional time when my younger brother, Danny, passed away from cancer at aged 26. I was asked to create a woodburned portrait of him on cherry wood for his urn. Ever since that experience, woodburning has held a special place in my heart. The smell of the wood and the intricate details of each piece I create always bring back memories of that defining moment in my life. Although I’ve created numerous woodburned portraits since then, Danny’s will always be my favorite.

I have been actively pursuing my art career for a few years now, with a focus on oil painting and woodburning. After taking some classes and gaining confidence in my work, I have exhibited in several group shows and even started teaching drawing and oil painting classes. Most recently, I was accepted into the Buffalo Society of Artists and I completed an artist residency at the C. Stuart and Jane Hunt Gallery in Buffalo, NY.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

As a creative, I find tremendous joy in sharing my ideas and creations with others. Whether it’s through teaching, painting or other forms of art, there’s something incredibly fulfilling about knowing that my work can have a positive impact on others. Additionally, I’ve found that my creative pursuits can be a powerful tool for self-healing and personal growth. Through my art, I’m able to process difficult emotions and experiences, and to work through challenges in a healthy and productive way.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

My passion for art and my belief that it is my true calling drives me to continue exploring my creativity. Despite taking a break to focus on other aspects of my life, I am now more determined than ever to pursue my artistic dreams. Having a supportive family who shares my passion has been a great source of inspiration and motivation for me. I am committed to making the most of this opportunity and not looking back with regret in the future.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.lauravalkwitch.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/laura_valkwitch_art/
• Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/underthewillowstudio/about