Her studio overlooks a small, untamed lake where she delights in observing many forest creatures including black bear, otter, and eagles. When not painting, she can be found hiking and photographing nature. Laurie believes that every child is talented, original, and has something important to say through creative expression. Frequently invited to speak in elementary schools, she has also been instrumental in initiating several gallery shows honoring children's art. Woven through each presentation is the belief that every child is, and will always be, talented . . .
Students watch as each step of a book's creation is explored.
Slides of both published and rejected work are shown as thoughts are shared on where ideas come from and how mistakes can be corrected. Watercolors, palette, brushes, layout sheets from books, original artwork in portfolio, etc., are shown. Simple sketches are drawn to demonstrate the importance of research and observation. The concept of journal writing is introduced to point out that most great artists and writers keep journals to record ideas and inspirations, memory joggers of details and thoughts needing exploration. Presentations begin and end with examples of children's artwork . . .