From working in makeup in the city, to becoming an artist in the country, my creative journey has been an exciting endeavour as I have settled into my true path.
Laura J Stratton,
ARTIST, GIN LOVER & CRAZY CAT LADY.
Entirely self-taught, Stratton credits her background in makeup artistry for her passion for detail and understanding of blending that she has crossed over into her art career.
Utilising combinations of graphite, colour pencil and acrylic as the foundations of her new works, Stratton exposes a surreal world that brings the relationship of female and feline to life by bridging the gap between them. Revealing the sense of human aspects within these animals and forming a unique sense of balanced identity, shared characteristics, and harmonious beauty between the two.
Since 2022, Stratton has been an avid educator, teaching in person workshops and classes where she shares her skills and techniques in colour pencil.
Currently based in the serene hills of the Tweed Valley, Stratton spends her days in the studio with her two cats where she continues to expand her works and evolve her Cat Lady art.
The Inspiration
My art is deeply influenced by the beauty within feline features and personalities. My aim is to showcase how these can form a harmonious unity with the female form. By striving to explore the unexpected and unique beauty when felines and females unite, I offer viewers a sanctuary where they can indulge in the surreal beauty of a “what if” world.
Evie
Rosie
My two characters are based on my own cats, Evie & Rosie. They are my muses, constantly inspiring me creatively and personally. Their different personalities are showcased within each artwork and scene.
Evie is a rouge; she is hot and cold. She can bring some sass, but it is her loyalty that makes her. She is bold, powerful and beautiful.
Rosie is a tiny but mighty force of absolute character and charm. She is wide eyed and born to pose. She is elegant, dainty, edgy and swift.
The difference within them, is what makes my works so exciting to create, as I strive to instil their charm and mischief within my surreal cat lady world full of quirkiness.
Process + Materials
My studio space is my little haven, a place where I can let my mind wander and create, a place where Evie and Rosie chill out and inspire me.
My artistic process involves working in pencil, where I draw layer upon layer to create a realistic style to an unrealistic theme. The control of pencil work elevates my love of details which invite the viewer in for closer examination.
Some of my works also include acrylic which I use to cover large areas before finishing with pencil.
Artist Statement
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Artist Statement —
Immerse yourself in my journey of artistic expression and self-discovery.
INTERESTED IN LEARNING COLOURED PENCIL?
