My name is Laura, and I’m a special education teacher and self-taught artist. I work with students with autism from kindergarten through second grade, a role that’s both incredibly rewarding and endlessly inspiring. Each day, I’m reminded of the beauty in patience, creativity, and connection—and those themes often find their way into my artwork.

I grew up on Long Island and moved to Irvington a couple of years ago for a fresh start and some room to grow—both personally and artistically. Though I never had formal training, I’ve spent years exploring different styles and techniques, letting each piece reflect a part of me. Most of what I know I learned from my grandfather, who was an oil painter. I used to sit with him for hours while he worked, just watching, talking, and taking it all in. He had this calm, steady way of creating, and I think a lot of that influenced me as an artist. Even now, when I paint, I feel like a part of him is with me.

My art is often colorful, playful, and a little nostalgic—shaped by the joy, creativity, and honesty I experience every day with my students. Through my work, I try to capture the small, meaningful moments that bring warmth and light into our lives and invite others to see everyday things with a bit more wonder and heart.