Artist Biography
A lifetime of scientific observation is the underpinning of the artist’s interest in capturing the essence of her subjects in watercolor. In her still life compositions, she focuses on close observation of the organic forms of flowering plants, vegetables, seashells and gourds for their exuberant variations in shape, color, texture and pattern. In her scenic paintings, she focuses on glimpses of domestic interiors, streetscapes or seascapes that capture the essence of the larger scene. Whatever her subject, her sparsely populated compositions are designed to create a serene and uncluttered visual world that pulls the viewer into the painting for its realistic painterly qualities, and then holds them there to experience their abstract visual qualities. She works in watercolor for the freedom it gives her to bring a work to life gradually with multiple layers of transparent washes.
The artist has had a dual interest in art and biology throughout her life. Initially this led her to a career as a scientific illustrator and biologist; in time this evolved into a full-time focus on painting. She began with a BA in biology from the University of Pennsylvania and studied at the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts, then trained in medical illustration at Johns Hopkins. A growing interest in doing the research behind the illustration led to a Ph.D. in biology, and a career in research and teaching, first in Chicago and then in Philadelphia. Throughout this career she created both original paintings and scientific illustrations, which included illustrating and writing a textbook and many research publications.
Lauren has exhibited in a number of galleries in Philadelphia and environs, including the Sketch Club and Plastic Club, Gallery Twenty Two, and the Main Line Art Center. She is an annual participant in POST, the Philadelphia Open Studios Tour. She has also done a number of commissioned works for individuals and institutions, including the University of Pennsylvania.
Affiliation
Professional Experience
Other
2007 – 2011
POST, Philadelphia Open Studios Tour, Philadelphia, PA
