We had the good fortune of connecting with Lauren Adams Thomas and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Lauren, how do you think about risk?
I think it’s important to take risks in life. I moved to Los Angeles from Chicago with my husband 25 years ago. Not being a native Angeleno, I realized then that I needed to find a community of artists. When my children were old enough, I returned to painting at Santa Monica Fine Art Studios under the direction of the artist, Tanya Rector. In 2014 I began to study with the artist, Tom Wudl at his downtown studio and under his direction, really began making some of my best work.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I’ve been making art my entire life. When I started working with Tom Wudl, I was inspired by fellow artists who were creating careers and new community in mid-life. I’ve learned to keep true to my vision and eventually it will find an audience. It is gratifying when someone tells you how much they connect to something you’ve created.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
When out of town friends visit, I like to drive up the Malibu coast and enjoy the ocean view. I love to tour the Adamson house in Malibu. It still contains the original furniture and tile from 1927 when the house was designed. After that we might stop by happy hour at El Mercado on Main Street in Santa Monica.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I’d like to acknowledge my mentor and friend, the artist Tom Wudl. He has truly encouraged me to make my very best work through his own example. He has demonstrated to me how important it is for one to express them self creatively. The evidence of the attention he brings to each piece of art he makes can currently be seen online at LALOUVER.COM.

Website: www.laurenthomasart.com
Instagram: laurenthomasart
Facebook: Lauren Adams Thomas