North Shore Spotlight Volunteer: Laura Fox

Spotlight on Laura Fox: A Multifaceted Volunteer

Each volunteer at our studio is motivated by personal passions, whether it’s community building, social justice, or enhancing their art practice. We’re fortunate to have multifaceted volunteers like Laura Fox. Laura joined the North Shore studio in May 2017, bringing a caring light and a unique eye for design. She regularly participates in artist mentorship and recently joined a trip to the Museum of Contemporary Art.

Enjoy this conversation between Laura and studio artist Andrew Sloan:

Andrew Sloan (AS): How did you hear about The Arts of Life?

Laura Fox (LF): I actually did some research online.

AS: That’s very interesting.

LF: There was one organization that listed a variety of different organizations, and from that list, I chose The Arts of Life. It seemed like a good fit for me.

AS: It sounds like you feel enlightened by this choice.

LF: Yes, it combined two things that I really enjoy.

AS: Did you know any artists before starting here?

LF: No, I did not, but now I do!

AS: What do you like most about The Arts of Life?

LF: I like that it provides a really open environment for artists to explore their own styles of art making.

AS: So, it allows for personal expression and individual practice?

LF: Yes, exactly. It’s not just one project given to everyone; everyone is working individually. It feels like a more advanced level of artistic engagement.

AS: Thank you for that insight. What do you like most about being in the studio environment?

LF: I enjoy being around all the tools, paint, and equipment. I like to be involved in any way I can help.

AS: What kind of work are you looking to do while you’re here?

LF: It’s interesting; the more I mentor artists, the more I start to realize my own artistic directions. As an artist myself, I have my own strengths and weaknesses. This experience reaffirms what I’m specifically interested in.

AS: Are you an artist? If so, what kind of art do you do?

LF: Yes, I have a degree in Fine Art with an emphasis in design and spent over 20 years in graphic design. I decided to move away from the commercial arena to focus on individual fine art. Now, I work more with clay, throwing and sculpting.

AS: That’s awesome!

LF: Yes, I find it very peaceful. I go to an art studio because working with clay requires a lot of equipment, like “mud tools” and a kiln, which takes considerable energy to operate.

AS: Thank you for sharing that.

AS: Last question: What do you do when you’re not at The Arts of Life?

LF: I work on my own artwork, spend time with my family, and handle everyday work tasks. It’s not all fun and games, but it’s part of learning and refining new techniques.

AS: The more time you can dedicate to your art, the better, as it really requires consistent effort.

LF: Exactly. The more time I can spend in the studio on my own art, the better, because as an artist, you need more than just a weekly commitment.