Featured Artist Laurie Snow Hein

Enjoy artist Laurie Snow Hein’s dreamy, light-filled oil paintings inspired by the tropical landscape of Florida. See more of her work by visiting her website.

 

 

I was blessed to be born into a talented family. My father could draw and he learned photography while in the Navy and loved it until the day he died. My mother’s first job, after dropping out of college as a drama/music major, was coloring my father’s sepia-tone portrait studio photos with oils.

 

 

Dad taught me to draw when I was about three, but warned me that I could never support myself as an artist. When my kindergarten teacher exclaimed that I was going to be an artist when I grew up, I was horrified.

 

 

I studied art through my teens and into my twenties with a retired illustrator, Graham Ingels. He saw my talent for portraits and sent me some students. I learned about oils, the importance of mixing colors and patience. Graham would say, “For you this is good. It will get better, you’re just not done yet.”

 

 

When I turned forty my sixth child was born. I suddenly needed to support my entire family. I knew I now needed to devote my time to making a living with my art. A local club asked if I could teach in all mediums. I said yes, then went to the library for videos and books to learn how. I have been teaching those same groups for over twenty-eight years. I have also taught workshops around the country—two in Europe and also on a cruise in Italy.

 

 

Teaching wasn’t enough to keep six kids dressed and fed, so I placed an advertisement (that I couldn’t afford!) in Veranda Magazine. I had to believe in myself and trust in God. I paid for two ads without results. The salesperson insisted it takes repeat ads to get response. I borrowed money and with the third issue, I got my first client. I had to fly to another state, meet the family and take photos. I was terrified.

 

 

From that little southern town, I have been painting portraits almost every year since. I never placed another ad.

 

 

Eventually, I was noticed by a publishing company and soon had a closet full of bonus prints. To sell them, I entered the world of art festivals. I bought a tent and have been doing top national festivals for nearly twenty-eight years.

 

 

Ten years ago, I made a decision to focus on what I love, painting my home state and the magic that is uniquely Florida. I want to share all the beauty surrounding me.

 

 

Now, at nearly seventy, it is time to enter competitions and build value for my collectors. Previously, my reward has been supporting my family. I love teaching, painting, and making a living with art. I am so thankful.

 

 

We live in an era when as artists we can connect with people worldwide. We just need to keep creating and learning along the way.

 

Artist Laurie Snow Hein invites you to follow her on Facebook, Pinterest and Behance.

 

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