EDUCATION:

BA in Art Wheaton College, 1979, Wheaton, Illinois

Coursework at San Francisco Academy of Art, early 80’s, San Francisco, CA

Coursework at Austin Museum of Art School, 2000-2005, Austin, TX

Painting Workshops with Cassandra James and Vicki McMurry

Plein Air Workshops with Plein Air Painters of the SE, 2006 & 2008

PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND:

With a degree in studio art and 19 years in the graphic design business, Laurel now paints full-time and teaches at the Austin Museum of Art. She is an avid plein air painter and says, "Plein air painting is a huge part of my process - it feeds, motivates, and is the source for my studio work. It is an excuse to be outside, experiencing nature firsthand. The whole process of searching for the perfect spot and chasing the fleeting light is irresistible to me."

ART AFFILIATIONS:

Austin Museum of Art, Faculty Member, Austin, TX

Plein Air Austin, Artist Patron/Board Member, Austin, TX

Oil Painters of America, Associate Member

Outdoor Painters Society, Artist Member