We are pleased to introduce you to a talented, young, Latina artist, Laurel Monsreal. Laura was born in Merida, Yucatan, Mexico and has been raised in the Chicago suburbs. She uses many art mediums, including painting, photography and film. Laura’s commitment to pursing her passions: art, storytelling, women’s empowerment, wellness and spirituality is inspiring. Continue reading to learn more about what inspires Laura’s art, what projects she is currently working on and how arts education has impacted her life!
Growing, Laura Monsreal
Why is your art important to you?
Art to me is important because it helps me express myself, helps my mental health and helps me connect with community.
What do you want your art to say?
I want my art to express the story that I am trying to express at that moment of my life.
What project are you working on now?
My current projects have been about connecting to the divine feminine energy, nature, and spirituality.
The Blind Trick, Laura Monsreal
What is your favorite artwork and/or artist?
Some of my favorite artists that have inspired me since 2017-2018 have been Vanja Vukelic, Pinot W. Ichwandardi, Abigail Halpin, Bella Kotak and Helen Dardik
How has arts education impacted your life?
Art education has impacted my life in many ways. It has helped me express who I am as an individual, made me think about the world and how it works, and helped me learn new knowledge such as principles of design and elements of art.
Revealing Relief, Laura Monsreal
Elephant Strength, Laura Monsreal
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Biography:
My name is Laura Monsreal. I am a Chicago-based Latina artist. Born in Merida, Yucatan, Mexico and raised in the Chicago suburbs. The relationship I have with art stems from the love of storytelling. I am a versatile artist, who enjoys working with painting, photography, and writing. Aside from art, holistic health and wellness are my other passions. Just like art, engaging in movement, mindful eating, and meditation has helped and nurtured my growth emotionally, spiritually and physically. I believe that we must treat our bodies as our own temples. One thing I believe helps in connecting the self to its higher truth is self-love. Incorporating self-love in to our lives is important because we must learn to love, and take care of ourselves first before we can love others. Living in society can feel like such a rush that we often lose ourselves. Through my art, I strive to spread awareness of the importance of self-love. Other themes I focus on are nature, women's empowerment, equality, identity, and spirituality.
