Painting has always been a large part of Laurie Meyer’s life. Almost 20 years ago, Laurie took a leap of faith, leaving an excellent position with a pharmaceutical company to follow her dream of becoming a professional artist. She took advantage of every opportunity that came her way, from painting storefront windows and ceiling murals, to joining the Charleston Artist Guild, to providing artwork for the cover of the Charleston Area Convention and Visitors Bureau’s 2016 Official Visitors Guide! Following years of relationship building, experience, and hard work, Laurie is thrilled to announce the grand opening of the Meyer Vogl Gallery, located at 122 Meeting Street in Charleston.
“Hang on, be patient, and hold on to your visions. They will materialize. When the opportunity shows up, jump in!” – Laurie Meyer
Name: Laurie Meyer
Location: Charleston, SC
Current Title: Artist and Co-Owner of Meyer Vogl Gallery
What challenges did you face along the way to becoming a professional artist, and how did you overcome them?
For artists, many challenges are self-imposed. We go through periods of ups and downs in our beliefs, in ourselves, and in our worth as viable artists. It was important for me to not compare myself with fellow artists and work hard every day.
What was your ‘aha moment’?
Starting out, the smallest triumphs are memorable and life changing. Winning first place in Piccolo Spoleto was especially memorable, validating, and totally cool! Landing my first teaching opportunity in Italy was a defining time for me. And now, opening my own gallery this March with my partner Marissa Vogl is definitely my greatest accomplishment so far.
Where do you pull inspiration for your work?
Artists are magicians who create the illusion of depth on a flat surface and light where there is none. My inspiration comes from that creation of light and depth, be it on a landscape, figure, or architecture. My students also inspire me. I learn much from them, and it is important that they develop their own voice.
What is your favorite work of art?
I was in San Miguel de Allende, located in central Mexico, several years ago and I watched a young girl swirling and dancing on the steps of the Parroquia. I captured many images of her – so innocently dancing, completely unaware of the people around her. I kept one of the paintings of her and it remains a favorite. On a return visit two years later, I saw her again. I wanted to tell her how she became a muse to me, but did not have the Spanish speaking abilities to do so.
Tell us more about your studio and workshops!
I love my studio. Only a few steps from my home, the smell of oil paint draws me up those studio stairs every day. On the days I have no students, the studio is filled with intense work, music, and a great Netflix show to listen to. On the days my students are present, it is full of energy, laughter, love, and learning. My most popular workshop involves the study of color. In addition to Charleston, I also teach in Italy, Mexico, and Maine.
If you could tell your 21-year-old self one thing, what would it be?
Life is a journey of many roads leading to many wonderful and interesting places, in many different phases of life. Hang on, be patient, and hold on to your visions. They will materialize. When the opportunity shows up, jump in!
Fun facts from Laurie:
Three words I’d use to describe Charleston are: Inspiring, accessible, delicious.
What I love most about Charleston is: The access to amazing beauty in the beaches and creeks, stunning historic architecture, the opportunity to grow as an artist, the incredible spirit of love and kindness in the people, and my family and friends – all great subjects to paint!
My favorite place to shop in Charleston is: The locally owned shops scattered about the city.
My favorite Charleston meals are: Anything at Edmund’s Oast, a cheeseburger at The Bar at HUSK, pizza at Crust, and sushi at Kanpai.
In my free time I enjoy: Making delicious soup, reading for my book club, studying art, working in my garden, enjoying wine and laughter with girlfriends, going to the Terrace Theater, completing the Sunday New York Times crossword, and pretending like I can sing a dance!
Request your copy of our 2016 Official Visitors Guide for a peek at Laurie’s artwork and experience more of the art scene in Charleston!
