Artist Bio

Figurative painter Lauren Florence explores the intricate relationships between people and animals in her work. Often working from vintage photographs, Lauren combines elements, layers, and vibrant color to create a narrative in each piece, working toward moments of awe or wonder.

“I want to create work that is immediately joyful, with narratives that give the viewer pause, pique their interest, and transport them in a positive way,” she says.

Lauren grew up in Bartlesville and was influenced at an early age by the wonderful art collection, both Native and non-Native, held at Woolaroc Museum and Wildlife Refuge just a few miles away. The wildlife and people of that area still play a substantial role in her work today.

Piece Description

“I paint living things,” she says. “Animals and people, typically from the American Southwest. Life is not flat, or still, or dull, or perfect.

“Painting the AAA valve for Kimray presented a challenge. It is technically perfect, an extraordinarily precise machine, 100% inanimate. Each one is exactly like the other. But after learning more about Kimray touring the Kimray facilities and seeing the faces of those who ensure the perfection of each AAA, it is clear that the AAA is a significant part of the lifeblood of this very vibrant organization. It supports hundreds of families and allows Kimray to reach deep into the community to support the arts and other organizations that in turn enhance the spark and the vibrancy of the community.

“To create the painting, I used turquoises and reds, colors that are nearly opposites on the color wheel. They are complimentary colors, and when paired in a painting, they add a vibrancy and a sense of movement that would not otherwise be there, making the overall image have a bit more of a punch than it might otherwise have, a bit more impact.

“It is my hope that my technique and application on the image of the AAA is representative of the vibrancy of the Kimray family and the positive energy they add back into the community. It has been a very rewarding experience for me as an artist to participate in this unique and valuable project.”