Finding Beauty in the Ordinary
My work is rooted in a simple, honest pursuit: finding the beauty in everyday objects and the quiet dignity of the natural world. I believe that even the most familiar things - the curve of a petal, the weight of a simple teapot, or the intricate pattern of a bird’s feathers - deserve to be seen with fresh eyes.
My Aesthetic: A Stage for Stillness
In my paintings, I use a signature porcelain-clear floor and soft, directional light to create a quiet space for my subjects. By setting aside the clutter of daily life, I’m able to focus entirely on the play of light and shadow. This clean, open environment isn’t just a stylistic choice; it’s a way to invite a sense of serenity and modern elegance into your home.
The Collections
Currently, my studio practice is centered on two core themes:
- Avian Botanicals: This series brings together the delicate textures of birds and flowers. I look for the visual rhymes in nature—the way a feather's softness mirrors a flower's petal—and place them together in simple glass or ceramic vessels.
- Classic Still Life: Here, I explore the "extraordinary in the ordinary." I love capturing the luminous glow of honey or the sharp reflections on a silver kettle, presenting these everyday moments as small, timeless treasures.
From the Field to the Easel
My process actually begins outdoors. As a wildlife photographer, I spend hours in the field documenting the subtle details of the birds I paint. This field research allows me to bring a sense of true-to-life accuracy to my studio work. For me, every painting is a marriage of technical care and emotional connection, created to be an heirloom piece that brings a little more light into your living space.
📷 When I'm not painting, I'm usually busy snapping photos in the wild. Check out my wildlife photography at: laurenpretoriusphotography.com