Laurie DeVault

Laurie DeVault grew up enjoying work with paper, paints, and markers. In her youth, she was an incessant doodler and wanted to become a children’s book illustrator and writer. Her living experiences in different parts of the world and her love for nature inspire her for painting and have brought her a deep appreciation for the cultures and histories of others. Although wanting to be an artist, Laurie went a different way and chose to become a teacher. After retiring, she went back to her love for painting. DeVault feels that painting again is like returning home after a long journey abroad. The pleasure of creation is familiar and sweet. Abstract painting is the natural path for DeVault. It is where she can be free to create in the moment, unbound by expectations about what the final product must look like. She strives to get out of her own way, ignoring the voices of judgment and self-doubt. She feels it is only then that her work comes alive and sings with joy and authenticity.