For artist Laurie Alvear, inspiration for her paintings is as easy to find as looking out her kitchen window.
Alvear said much of her work is done sitting at the kitchen table, looking out at nature, the theme of most of her paintings.
A longtime Westmont resident, Alvear will be the featured artist in the upcoming Spring Palette Art Show, hosted by the Westmont Park District, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. March 21 at the Gregg House Museum next door to the Park District Administrative Center, 55 E. Richmond St.
The show will have a spring theme, with flowers, birds and landscapes in all kinds of media. Watercolors to pastels will capture the spirit of a new season.
Alvear, who has been an artist most of her life, got involved with the Park District while she was an art teacher at Holy Trinity School in Westmont, which his right next door to the Park District.
“I would take the kids outside and work on art projects, and Alice (Krampits) who organizes the spring show, asked me if I was interested in doing some art programs,” Alvear said.
While she paints about five days a week, she was not always a professional artist. She was employed by AT&T as a graphic artist for several years and now paints professionally, while also selling Avon products on the side.
Much of her work is now done with watercolors, which she said is often difficult for some artists. Neighbors and friends often come by her house to see her bathroom, which is covered in murals, she said.
“One of my big things is that before a painting is finished, I will walk away from it for a few days,” she said. “When I come back to it, all these ideas just jump out at me of things that I can add.”
Art show on way
The Westmont Park District’s Spring Palette Art Show, now in its fifth year, is usually held the weekend before spring. Alvear said about 10 different artists are expected to display pieces during the show. For more information or to participate, call Alice Krampits at the Park District at (630) 969-8080, Ext. 104.
Quote of note
“Everything I do seems to revolve around art in some way,” Alvear said.
Philosophy
“I always try to paint what brings me peace, and I like to be able to share that peace with people who view my paintings,” Alvear said.
Favorites
Art Style Always been a fan of impressionists
Artist Pablo Picasso
Music ’60s, like the Beatles, the Doors and Jimi Hendrix
Interests Cooking, gardening and arts and crafts
