We chatted with whimsical artist Jamie Lawson, who creates beautiful pieces using paints and digital imagery.
Please describe your art for us.
I think everyone is an artist in one form or another. I have always felt the need to make things and create. I love working in mixed media. Creating pop pet artwork and commission pieces is a passion of mine, but I have expanded a lot this year and really enjoyed using recycled and reclaimed materials as my backdrop for new wood art, and am having fun with some really interesting patchwork paper designs on wood signs too. I guess being an artist to me means that you are always growing and challenging yourself to create things you love.
How long have you been creating and tell us about your process?
Labrottie Creations originated in 2018. It started when I created a pop pet piece for my then-future step son, Nik, who I had just met. I thought, what’s the best way to get to know a new person? Especially if I am nervous. We both love dogs, so my boyfriend (we married in 2020) gave me a couple pictures of Nik’s animals, Skywalker the dog and Bruno, the three legged cat and off I went, creating my first pop pet artwork pieces. I use the pictures to help with the scale, but each piece is hand drawn using my computer mouse as my paint brush. I then incorporate bright and fun colors and designs in the backgrounds. The pieces really come to life once the eyes are completed. I thought once I finished Nik’s pieces, why not start creating for myself, family members and friends, and it went from there….
What inspires you as an artist?
I am inspired by my own animals and the love and joy they bring me. I am inspired by my husband who doesn’t create animal art, but he is so creative and smart in his own ways, and he inspires and supports me everyday. I am also inspired by the North Carolina artist community, of which I love being part of.
What is your favorite part of being a part of Whimsical Women?
Last year was the first time I participated in WW. My friend Genna introduced me, and I just love that WW makes everyone feel special and how they have created such a sense of community.
Where can we see more of your work and buy a piece or two?
You can visit my instagram, facebook page, or website. www.labrottiecreations.com, or Labrottie Creations under any social media. I am also a member of the Durham Craft Market. And, have my art and merchandise located in gift shops throughout North Carolina.
Jamie is just one of the multi-talented artists that make up the Whimsical Women community.