We were lucky to catch up with Lauryn Marshall recently and have shared our conversation below.
Lauryn, thank you so much for taking the time to share your lessons learned with us and we’re sure your wisdom will help many. So, one question that comes up often and that we’re hoping you can shed some light on is keeping creativity alive over long stretches – how do you keep your creativity alive?
It isn’t always easy to remain uniquely creative when there are so many artists and creatives in the world but remaining steadfast in your own journey is what often sets us apart. A lot of my motivation to create comes from my childhood dreams. I’ve always enjoyed art and was constantly around it.
Growing up, I spent a lot of time in my Grandma Robbie’s leathergoods store (which she owned and operated as a seamstress doing alterations and commissions for clients) and in my boredom, I would get tasked with making belts, bracelets, and all sorts of crafts to keep me busy. My creativity was born out of necessity, and to be honest, it allowed me to be a sponge and be imaginative. I’ve gotten inspiration from music, conversations, memories, books, tv and film, and anything that sparks a connection and makes me think “How could I visually represent this?”. There were never any restrictions to my ideas and when I had doubts on how to bring the ideas to life, I reminded myself that I’d only get better with time. Creativity is something that is always expanding and being receptive to taking risks conceptually has allowed me to follow my passions and make it a career.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
For those who don’t know of me, my name is Lauryn (she/her) and I’m a visual artist that works predominately in the mediums of clay, paint (oftentimes through portraiture and murals), and textiles. I have been creating art since age 2 and have always been interested in the ways art can move people and make them think. Most recently, I just finished my first artist in residency and solo exhibition that was on display in Oakland, CA in the Fall and Winter of 2024.
I’m fascinated by the stories of others and how to portray a narrative without the use of a verbal language. But to do this successfully—I have to have a very rich understanding of how someone or something comes to be. An aspect of my art practice that not everyone knows is that it’s heavily research-based and it usually takes hours of reading and discussion before I’m ready to bring an idea to life.
One thing I’m excited to bring into the new year is deeper exploration into my influences and sharing more behind-the-scenes of my processes. On my social media (Instagram, Facebook, etc.) I’ll be sharing some of the research I’ve done into artists and creatives who’ve made an impact in the spaces I’m part of. My identity as a Black Queer woman often comes through as I paint and sculpt the triumphs and many histories in my communities. You can follow my journey through my handle @art.bymarshall on all platforms as I hope to build a richer connection with folks on (and off) line.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
I will always be thankful for my ability to be curious, vulnerable, and–most importantly–resourceful as these three qualities have allowed me to continue to grow as an artist.
Each of these qualities in combination allow you to be intentional on your purpose. You should always make the work you do because YOU like it but in order to be the most successful you can be, you cannot rely on your talents alone! It takes a community and the support of chosen family and loved ones to propel you forward. Some of the best advice I hold with me today is knowing that asking questions and being truthful about your capacity allows folks to become interested in you and the work you create. Your journey continues on and on knowing there are people dedicated to following you on your path because of the strength of your character. People who can ultimately present you with tools (tangible and intangible) that can help you as challenges appear. I’ve gained friends, mentors, mentees, collaborations, and an ever-growing list of accomplishments through this mindset.
Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?
I’m always interested in meeting new people to collaborate with as well as connecting with prospective clients. Whether it may be an organization, business, or individual looking to commission a personal piece, I’d love the opportunity to present some more artwork. I’m open to participating in group exhibitions and local galleries in the Bay Area (especially) and other regions nationally and internationally and can see myself in any opportunities that align with the themes I work with and my overall goals.
If folks are looking to make murals together, hold learning spaces for aspiring youth artists, create sculptural and painted pieces, or even organize an event, please feel free to reach out to me through my email at [email protected]. I’m open to meeting any creatives interested in building cohorts and teams for any special projects for the future.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.laurynmarshall.com
- Instagram: @art.bymarshall
