about

I am a North Carolina artist specializing in portraits. Portraiture has been my passion since I was about ten years old! Born in Sugar Tit, SC, and raised in North Carolina, my Southern roots are strong and have influenced me greatly. I graduated from Appalachian State University in 1994. After teaching Kindergarten and First Grade, I left education for awhile and had two beautiful and very entertaining boys! I have gradually worked my way back to what feels right... art. This time, in my own studio and gallery, I have married my two passions, art and teaching.

I have studied under a number of wonderful artists, including Master of Fine Arts Daniel Nie (North Carolina Governor’s School of Visual Arts). Robert Moody, a North Carolina artist and teacher, was also a mentor to me. He allowed me many opportunities to explore what I loved most... portraiture.

For years I have appreciated and been influenced by Rembrandt and the Impressionists. I am a realist, but could also be defined as an Impressionistic-Realist. As the artist, I enjoy transferring thought and feeling to something that can be shared in a sketch or painting. Each portrait I do is an interpretation of what I see and how it makes me feel.

I am a member of the Portrait Society of America, supporting the traditions of fine art portraiture and figurative works. My artwork can now be found in private collections all over the United States, Canada, Great Britain, Northern Ireland, Australia, and South Africa thanks to the miracle of the internet and the greatest advertisement of all... happy customers!

I cannot say enough how touched I have been by portrait recipients who express their appreciation for the work I've done. The occupation of portrait artist is indeed a very personal, emotional, and gratifying one.

I look forward to being YOUR Personal Artist!

Laurie Bostian