Finding Beauty in the Unexpected

My work is rooted in a simple, honest pursuit: finding the beauty where it is least expected. I believe that even the most familiar subjects - the curve of a petal, the weight of a vintage teapot, or the intricate pattern of a bird’s feathers - deserve to be seen with fresh eyes.

As an oil painter, my muse is the often-overlooked charm of the world around us. I strive to illuminate the ingredients of a quiet kitchen, the subtle elegance of a single bloom, and the reflections bouncing off a simple kettle. I have a soft spot for the humorous and whimsical, and you will often find these themes sprinkled throughout my portfolio - from birds casually perched on teacups and honey bears buzzing with bees to inanimate objects with a touch of anthropomorphism.

The Aesthetic: A Stage for Stillness

In my studio, I create an atmospheric stage for my subjects to inhabit. Moving away from the clutter of daily life, I place each subject within a seamless, medium-toned environment. By utilizing soft gradients and a focused, directional light, I allow the subject to emerge with a sense of "luminous presence."

This clean, modern environment isn’t just a stylistic choice; it’s a way to invite a sense of serenity and elegance into your home. My hope is that these paintings offer a fresh perspective on the familiar - turning a brief glance into a lasting moment of connection with the humble beauty of our world.

Heirloom Quality

Every piece that leaves my studio is a marriage of technical care and emotional connection. These are created to be heirloom pieces - quiet, timeless treasures that bring a little more light and "extraordinary" beauty into your living space.

📷 A Note on Nature: When I'm not painting, I'm usually busy snapping photos in the wild. As a huge nature buff and animal lover, I often integrate my field research and wildlife photography into my paintings. Check out my photography at: laurenpretoriusphotography.com