My earliest memories revolve around a passion to create. I can remember distinctly strolling through the aisles of "Frank's Nursery and Crafts" enchanted by the sparkle and color. Anything smaller than my hand was the inspiration for a new vision, a new expression of a fantastical world. And that world was held together with glue, construction paper, sequins and Cheerios. It was a world colored by Crayolas and brightened by glitter.

While my tools and materials may have become more sophisticated, my passion has only grown with every year. I have had the distinct pleasure of attending amazing institutes for the arts that have helped focus my innate vision rather than direct it. I was also exposed to many mediums from photography to painting to electronic/digital graphics. With this experience, I was able to expand my scope while working at Pixar Animation Studios, on the award winning animated feature, “Monsters, Inc.” It was here that I had an opportunity to further explore the relationship between the art and the accents. Not only was I able to create some of the elements, but I learned to appreciate the influence of lighting, the fine details of each layer and the contribution each element made to the bigger picture. In short, this experience took me deeper into my art through the process of creating a single still.

The evolution of my work is evident from almost every experience. From the people I meet, the places I travel to and the work I've done. As an artist, it is a natural evolution to see these experiences show up in my work. Currently, I see my photography and artwork fueled by glitter, metallics, nature, cemeteries, Eastern religions, mystery, emotion and truth. In the near future, I look forward to continuing my passionate relationship in the world of Glass Blowing. I am very excited by the possibilities of this medium - the fire, the texture, the alchemical dance of elements.

My artistic spirit feeds on color, texture, and light. I am sure, as I continue on this journey, the work that manifests before me will change to reflect an even more fantastical world.

What will always remain the same is my creative spirit. Of that I am certain. Please join me on my majestic exploration.

~Lauren J. Mentzel