Laura Sharlow

My work explores the concept of representing people through portraits that never include their face. I began this series with a self portrait that then led to a small series including friends and family. In today’s society we define ourselves by where we live, what we own, what we like, and what we surround ourselves with. I work with my subjects to get multiple reference photos that I will paint from in acrylic or oil. This process allows me to have an intimate view into their lives as I visit the actual space, see the items, and speak with them. I attempt to show the personalities of people by these means. I want my painting to appear like you are seeing from the subject's eyes. You step into their shoes and look at their world from their eyes to see their lives. I paint people in the places they reside the most, surrounded by the objects that they use and enjoy from their perspective to convey who they are without ever showing their face. In addition to this ongoing portrait series, I work across many mediums and explore a wide range of topics and visual approaches. I enjoy collaborative and commission-based work, and I have completed many murals throughout the local area. Whether working on an intimate painting, a commissioned piece, or a large-scale public mural, my practice is rooted in storytelling, connection, and creating work that reflects personal and shared experiences.