Meet Laurel Hoyt of Death by Art in Thornton

Today we’d like to introduce you to Laurel Hoyt.

Laurel, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I’ve always been drawn towards color. From the time I was two, I’ve had a pencil and paper in front of me. My grandmother was an artist and would sit and draw with me for hours, I suppose that’s where I started taking it seriously. We would walk through her garden observing and admiring the beauty of nature and how it could be portrayed in our art.

She would occasionally feed me flowers, maybe that’s where my love of them came from. Art has been my safe space throughout my adolescence. I struggle with depression and anxiety and creating is my way of releasing and dealing with those negative emotions. I think that’s where the creepy aspect comes from.

 Art has saved my life and I am so thankful for this awesome ability to show my emotions and feelings in a unique way. My hope is to inspire and help others find their passion and outlet of expressions. I’ll be creating until the day I die.

Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Not one bit. From year-long artist-block to severe depressive episodes, this journey has been tough. I often compare my art to others but I think that’s a common theme amount artsy people. Recently I’ve found my confidence though and it’s such a cool feeling. I’ve also had my fair share of people telling me how “I won’t make it” or how “art isn’t a real job” but I don’t let it get to me, I can’t wait to prove them wrong.

We’d love to hear more about your art.
My style is very macabre, but I feel like my version of macabre art is a bit different. Instead of including earthy/dull tones in my pieces, I enjoy using bright and unusual colors. I specialize in illustration of all mediums, but most of my recent work has been digital.

Before this year I had no idea what my style was but as I drew more funky pieces I realized that my style is just that, Funky.

Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
My parents have always been so supportive of my creativity. Encouraging me to never quit and to keep pushing new boundaries. They’re rockstars.

Pricing:

• Prints: $25+
• Commission: $50+

Contact Info:

• Website: https://lhoyt4847f.myportfolio.com/
• Email: Laurelkhoyt@gmail.com
• Instagram: Deathby.art

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