Laura Lebeda

"My intention is to invite viewers to look closer, pause, and see the sacred in our everyday lives. The purpose of my artwork is to encourage further exploration and contemplation of the strength, fragility and beauty of the natural world, and our human relationship within it."

Laura Lebeda is inspired by natures beauty and the complexity of its details. Through her drawings she shares her fascination of flora and fauna, creating a visual dialogue for the viewer to enjoy. By emphasizing specific details and the feeling of motion, memories and narratives develop. Her charcoal drawings combine layers of color and text create artwork which pull the viewer in.

Laura's large scale charcoal drawings are multi-layered, created by drawing and erasing repeatedly. Her drawings may incorporate text and notes, observations and and splashes of color, as if taken from the pages of a field journal. Carefully measured proportions combined with spontaneous marks to emphasize motion, create layers of information to visually process and enjoy.

Laura obtained her BA with honors. She studied abroad in Vienna and Greece. Her MFA is from Fontbonne University. She has designed and taught courses at the university level, while receiving multiple awards in juried galley exhibits and art fairs. A graphic design background has influenced her drawing style, emphasizing strong lines and incorporating text and color swatches as a visual element.