Artist Spotlight: Laurie Anne Gonzalez (Art + Design)

Meet artist Laurie Anne Gonzalez, a Southern artist with Alabama roots now living in Phoenix, Arizona with her husband Taylor. Laurie Anne's artwork showcases her exploration of fine art figure drawing as well as capturing her new Southwestern environment. Read on to learn more about Laurie Anne's artwork and to see her home tour!

'Lady with apple', gouache, Laurie Anne Gonzalez.

Jacquin: How would you describe your artwork? What are you currently working on?

Laurie Anne: If I had to put myself in a category for my style of art it would lean towards post-impressionism but my style can change drastically depending on what I am working on. Not only do I paint but I also design stationery which tends to be more meticulous and detailed artwork. Currently, I am working on exploring different mediums and sizes of artwork. I’m very excited to see what 2018 brings!

'Desert Outline', gouache, Laurie Anne Gonzalez. 

Jacquin: How has your artwork or your approach towards art evolved over the years?

Laurie Anne: My art has changed a lot over the years. Mainly in size. I used to paint very large oil paintings. I took about a 6 year break from painting and worked for Sweet Pea Designs stationery company and when I started my painting business back up, I starting working on smaller watercolor paintings.

'Lady with table', gouache, Laurie Anne Gonzalez.

Jacquin: How does your love of antiques & vintage come out in your style at home? Also, tell us about your vintage home decor shop, Laurel and Co.

Laurie Anne: Laurel and Co. was started by me and my friend Lauren out of a mutual love of Emily Henderson. My favorite part of our business is finding really good vintage art. When my husband and I go on trips, we try to find a piece of art from a thrift store or estate sale to remember our trip by.

'Dancing Ladies', gouaches, Laurie Anne Gonzalez.

Jacquin: What is your favorite hobby when you aren't creating artwork?

Laurie Anne: When I’m not working, you can find me hanging out with my husband and puppy or traveling! I love to travel and try to as much as possible. 

Jacquin: What artists are inspiring you right now?

Laurie Anne:  I’m currently digging Richard Claremont, Dylon Mierzwinski, and Kate Waddell.

Jacquin: What is on your creative bucket list? 

Laurie Anne: To teach online Art classes! That's one of the fun things I am going to explore this year!

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The Design Lovers Gift Guide

I've collaborated with the Interiors by Jacquin team to compile the best gift ideas for Design Lovers of all backgrounds. You will love these gift suggestions! We have 3 distinct categories of gifts to entice you: Creative gifts, Luxury gifts, and Budget-Friendly gifts. Read on for our top recommendations for the picky design-lover in your life!

1. Michael Aram Palm Frame

2. Tourer Bright Cross-Body Bag

3. Broste Copenhagen 'Haldan' Candlestick Set

JACQUIN'S TOP CHOICE:

Michael Aram Gold 'Palm' Frame

Designer Michael Aram never fails to create impressive luxury home decor & gift items. This gilded 'Palm' frame is one of my favorites! This frame, which I own personally, catches the light and shines when displayed making it the perfect showstopper gift for the Design Lover!

BONUS: 

Koa Wood & Rose Gold Watch - JORD Watch

1. Origami Folded Vase

2. Creative Lettering & Beyond Art Kit

3. 'Well-Wishing' Travel Mug

STEPHANIE'S TOP CHOICE:

Creative Lettering Art & Stationery Kit

Now this gift is definitely my favorite gift of the season! It's no secret that the art of calligraphy has made a glorious comeback in these past few years, and if you're anything like me, it has seriously peaked your creative interest. If you know someone (or maybe you are someone) who is dying to learn this skill but can't afford to take a professional course, then this lovely hand-lettering kit teaches the magic of calligraphy and hand-lettering for only $14.77! 

1. Filix Lambswool Blanket

2. Dragonfly Napkin Ring Set in Violet

3. BYOB Scented Candle DIY Workshop

LAYNE'S TOP CHOICE:

BYOB Scented Candle Making Workshop

During one of my recent trips to Atlanta, I stopped into the store Candlefish. Not only do they have hundreds of handcrafted candles in stock, with the option of choosing your own scents to put into a unique candle, they also offer candle and essential oil making workshops! Candle making workshops are a great gift to give/plan for a girls night out or a date night! It is definitely an unexpected yet extremely pleasant surprise of a gift. 

Save this gift guide onto Pinterest to have gift ideas on-hand throughout the year! Happy shopping!

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Fun Finds at the Traders Village Flea Market! (Video)

There are two things I really love in life - a great design find and a great deal, and Traders Village Flea Market in Texas delivers on both. Traders Village is located just outside of Dallas, Texas in the suburb of Grand Prairie and it has been ranked one of the Top 10 Flea Markets in the United States. 


I made the visit to Traders Village with my great friend Hina Amin, host of inspirational radio show Expressive Homes with Hina on Radio Azad. Hina and I were eager to see what this flea market has to offer and we were inspired by so many things we found while shopping. Watch our video above to see our experience at Traders Village Flea Market!

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