Meet Laura Patrick | Fine Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Laura Patrick and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Laura, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Being a full time artist, owning my own business was always the goal. As a multi-generational Floridian, born and raised in Tallahassee, we grew up exploring Florida’s coasts. I always had a knack for painting and drawing and was encouraged from an very early age to create. I treasured creative exploration capturing moments and finding beauty in nature.

In college I studied fine art and spent 10 years honing my craft in New York City. Working in design and advertising, I became the first female art director for an award-winning Manhattan design firm, where we partnered with some of the world’s top brands. Creating successful campaigns and growing client relationships was such a valuable experience to later building my own brand.

In the fall of 2017, I was working for a creative company and realized that there was no better time to really go for it. I knew I wanted to be a full time artist and needed the freedom to explore my passions and creativity. I wanted to make art that was meaningful to me, and I wanted the freedom to share it with others. I leaned into the beauty of North Florida’s beaches and began painting gulls, palms, oysters, fish, colorful abstracts and more. With growing support and repeat customers, my business continued to grow into a recognized brand, Lello Co., which is known for creating colorful coastal motifs and large abstract works of art.

Please tell us more about your work. We’d love to hear what sets you apart from others, what you are most proud of or excited about. How did you get to where you are today professionally. Was it easy? If not, how did you overcome the challenges? What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way. What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story?
My family loves to be outdoors exploring wild beaches, fishing, hunting for shells and sharks teeth, and soaking up nature’s beauty. Each of these experiences is woven into the pieces of art I create. Gulls overhead, spoonbill in flight, sunsets over marshlands, oyster patterns and colors, swaying palms, bright lines in the sky over crashing waves. There is so much beauty in every day experiences. Capturing these small moments is an ever evolving challenge. Art is such a beautiful form of expression, and I get so much out of creating treasures for others.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
There are so many wonderful local places to explore. There’s a great wine shop downtown called Poco Vino with a really good selection of wines and small bites and just across the road is a newly opened, in-demand restaurant, Hayward House. I love to explore the History Museum. My children and I are there often and always find new treasures. Then it’s off to midtown for yummy tapas-style sliders at a restaurant called Sliders, of course. Maybe take a walk to work off lunch and explore the trails throughout beautiful Maclay Gardens. Then a short drive to several fun shops just north of town off Bannerman. A favorite store featuring home goods, clothing and Lello Co. art is Shoppe Neat. Whether it’s art and food, shopping or exploring the outdoors, there’s definitely something for everyone in Tallahassee. 

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My parents are extremely creative and have always encouraged and supported my growth as an artist.

Website: www.lelloco.com

Instagram: @lello_co