Lauren is an experienced oil painting instructor based in Los Angeles. She specializes in various mediums, techniques, and painting methodologies. Lauren's interactive, student-centered teaching style fosters creativity and collaboration in the intimate process of creating artwork. She has taught people of all ages and was a teacher-in-residence at The Oxbow School. Lauren's work has been exhibited internationally, and she is dedicated to inspiring the next generation of artists.
I specialize in teaching oil painting techniques and offer mentorship on contemporary studio practices. With nearly 10 years of experience working with oil paint, I have in-depth knowledge of various mediums, techniques, surface preparation, and painting methodologies. While helping students build their technical skills, I also offer insights from my active studio practice as an artist. Together with each student, we create a tailored list of skill goals and conceptual work goals, focusing on the techniques they want to learn and the artistic achievements they aim for.
Sharing my skills and knowledge stems from a profound sense of fulfillment rooted in my passion for art. I find deep satisfaction in imparting this love to others. Teaching allows me to connect with myself and my students in a uniquely meaningful way. I've been fortunate to learn from exceptional mentors and have developed lifelong relationships with them. Sharing what I know reinforces my own understanding and keeps me engaged in my mission of continuous learning. It's exciting to pass on knowledge and continue expanding the tremendous lineage of art-making we belong to.
I've been painting for nearly 10 years, with a serious studio practice for the last 5. During this time, I've created over 100 paintings—some truly wonderful, others quite bad! I'm constantly experimenting and challenging myself. As I've evolved as an artist, my work has reflects the many versions of myself and each painting contains these parts of me. Painting is a way to encounter myself and understand the world around me. It's deeply personal and ever-changing, just as I am. In recent years, I've had the opportunity to exhibit my work in galleries internationally, from Los Angeles to Latina, Italy. This has been an eye-opening experience, allowing me to fully dedicate myself to my craft. As I continue to ground myself in my studio practice, I'm thrilled about the prospect of teaching regularly. My experiences working with students, both one-on-one and in classes, have been incredibly fulfilling.
My teaching style is warm, personal, and adaptable! I focus on collaboration and how we can discover new territory together. Art making is deeply personal, and I am excited to meet my students wherever they are when they begin lessons. Whether they have never picked up a paintbrush or make works regularly and just want to refine their technique, we start with discussing history, goals, and dreams. Together, we develop a lesson plan and style that excites both of us. With a wide range of knowledge, I offer guidance beyond painting, such as research, concept development, books to read, and art to view and study based on student goals.
My community and reading are my greatest sources of inspiration! Reading is my primary method for expanding knowledge and staying creatively inspired. My interests span philosophy, poetry, historical writing, and art critical theory. My community of artists keeps me grounded and connected—not only to myself but to my greater purpose as a fellow community member. I'm grateful every day for the artists in my life who inspire me to grow enthusiastically and persist in creating my work.
