Laura Nerness
Laura Nerness is an artist based out of Windom, MN and Sioux Falls, SD, working primarily in watercolor, acrylic, and photography. Landscapes of the Midwest have always been places of wonder and inspiration for her artwork. Love of travel and culture has led her across the States as well as to Italy, China, Israel, Guatemala and Estonia. The camera or sketchbook is never far off on these journeys, readily documenting unfolding stories and light in each place.
Photographing weddings and portraits since 2006, Laura brings 15+ years of experience from the field, along with extensive knowledge of camera equipment and photo processing software such as Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop. In 2013 she graduated from Augustana University with a bachelor’s degree in Art. Since 2016 she has worked 3,000+ hours as an Artist in Resident at Sanford Arts in Sioux Falls, SD. During this time, she has guided patients, family members, and healthcare staff through a range of art painting projects in the Cancer Center, Children’s Hospital, In-patient Rehab, NICU, and High-Risk OB. Laura is also available for residencies outside the healthcare setting, such as schools, community centers and residential care centers.
During each art workshop, students are provided with step-by-step instruction, tools and materials, and a warm welcoming space where they are free to experiment and play. This is Laura’s greatest joy; inviting others into the creative process and seeing them begin to dream, explore and express those often-wordless stirrings of the heart. She aims to clearly explain, gently guide, attentively listen, be present in struggles and breakthroughs alike, and through all, to affirm the immense value of each voice, story, and life.
Upon departure, students and teachers are left with newly acquired skills in painting or photography, along with a deepened understanding of the foundational principles of design and elements of art, such as repetition, movement, contrast, color, space, and shape. Laura’s desire is that each student would discover joy in the process, curiosity toward art and the world around them, confidence to learn something new, and a newfound sense of hope & possibility when stepping into unknowns.
Laura is a fulltime photographer during the summer season and will only be available for residencies between December - May.
Grade Level: K-Adult
Contact: Laura Nerness
Phone: 507-351-8113
Email: info@lauranerness.com
Website: www.lauranerness.com