Meet Laurie Moore | Professional Fine Artist & Portrait Painter

We had the good fortune of connecting with Laurie Moore and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Laurie, why did you pursue a creative career?
I pursued an artistic career because creating art has always felt like an intrinsic part of who I am—a way to process the world around me and connect with others. From a young age, I was captivated by the transformative power of art, but life’s practical demands often pulled me in different directions. My time in the Navy and my career in nursing were fulfilling in their own ways, but the pull toward art never truly left me. It became a quiet, constant presence, waiting for the right moment to emerge.

Eventually, I realized that art wasn’t just a hobby or something I could set aside indefinitely—it was my calling. Painting allows me to harmonize the analytical precision I developed in my nursing career with the creativity and expression I’ve always craved. It’s deeply satisfying to push myself technically and emotionally in my work, especially through the challenge of portraiture.

Choosing to pursue art full-time was a decision rooted in both reflection and courage. The pandemic, along with the support of my family, helped me reevaluate what truly mattered to me. I didn’t want to look back and wonder “What if?” Art is not only my passion but a way to leave a lasting impact, creating something meaningful that can be cherished for generations. Through this path, I’ve found not just a career but a sense of purpose.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My art is deeply rooted in realism and portraiture, with a focus on capturing not just the physical likeness of my subjects, but their unique personalities and stories. What sets my work apart is my meticulous attention to detail and unwavering commitment to surpassing my own abilities with each new piece. I am constantly driven to master my craft, delving into the intricacies of my materials, techniques, and how people respond psychologically and emotionally to the choices I make as an artist.

Far beyond relying on “happy accidents,” I approach my work with intention, making countless small decisions along the way that come together to form something that resonates. I also spend a lot of time researching. I devour books from various disciplines, both contemporary and historical, and I weave those insights into my own work. Although at times I have been known to get caught up in my own perfectionism, I try to remind myself of the mantra “progress, not perfection.” Because it’s not about getting it right every time—it’s about trying to make each piece better than the last.
One of the accomplishments I’m most proud of is the trust my collectors and patrons place in me to create pieces that hold immense personal value for generations. Whether it’s a portrait of a loved one, a cherished memory, or a symbolic subject, knowing that my work has touched someone’s life so deeply is profoundly fulfilling. I’m also passionate about continually evolving as an artist, exploring new techniques, mediums, and themes that push my creative boundaries.

Just yesterday, while working at my easel, I told my partner, “I don’t know how easy it looks to you, but it’s a lot harder than it seems.” That sentiment perfectly captures my journey—one filled with self-discovery, trial and error, and moments of doubt. Balancing art with the demands of life, including my previous careers in the military and perioperative nursing, as well as being a mother of three (including a toddler), has required immense dedication and creative time management. There were times when practical obligations forced me to put my art on hold, but I’ve learned that perseverance is key. Every small step forward brings me closer to my goals.

The most valuable lessons I’ve learned along the way are to be patient with myself and to trust the process. Sometimes the only value of a thing, such as a failed project, is what you learned from the experience. Success in art, as in life, is rarely linear—it’s a journey of ups and downs. I’ve also realized the importance of creating my own opportunities instead of waiting for someone to “discover” me. Building a career as an artist requires a combination of talent, hard work, and courage to navigate the unknown. And of course, little luck never hurts.

What I want the world to know about me and my story is that I am deeply committed to my craft and to sharing my vision with others. My work is about more than creating a beautiful image; it’s about preserving moments, emotions, and connections in a way that photography or digital mediums cannot replicate. My brand, “Moore Than Portraits,” reflects my dedication to offering more than just art—it’s about creating something personal, timeless, and meaningful. I hope my story inspires others to pursue their passions, embrace the challenges, and find fulfillment in chasing their dreams.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend and I were visiting Southern California, I’d craft an itinerary packed with iconic landmarks, unique experiences, and a touch of fun that captures the vibrant energy of the region. Here’s how I’d show them the best time:

Day 1: Venice Beach and Muscle Beach
Start the day with breakfast in Venice Beach, choosing some fresh, authentic Mexican cuisine. Next, rent some bikes and soak in the rich culture of the beachfront. Check out Muscle Beach, the famous outdoor gym where you can watch athletes in action or snap some photos at this historic spot. Of course, some light shopping for souvenirs is a must. When I was there, I had to pick up a “Muscle Beach” muscle shirt that looks suspiciously like the Starbucks logo. Now, when I wear it to the gym, it brings back memories of the warm California sunshine.

Day 2: Hollywood Studio Tour and Walk of Fame
Tour one of the legendary Hollywood studio lots, such as Warner Bros. or Paramount Pictures, for a behind-the-scenes glimpse into filmmaking magic. After lunch, we would take a stroll down Hollywood Boulevard, taking in iconic sites like the Walk of Fame, Grauman’s Chinese Theatre, and the Dolby Theatre. While in the area, we would have to visit Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Museum for an immersive and entertaining experience. I highly recommend wax museums as well. Later, we would grab dinner at Yamashiro, where we could enjoy panoramic views of the city.

Day 3: Universal Studios Hollywood
I would dedicate the entire day to experiencing all Universal Studios Hollywood has to offer. I would try to ride all the best and most iconic rides like Jurassic World, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and The Simpsons Ride. The areas surrounding these rides are so immersive, they can’t be passed up. I highly recommend taking the Studio Tour, which offers a fun peek into the world of movie-making. I suggest planning to do that once your feet get tired, but make sure to visit the restroom before embarking on the tour—you can’t exactly use the restroom in their “Potemkin village.” Wrap up the day with dinner at one of the fun restaurants in Universal CityWalk, like Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.

Day 4: Griffith Observatory and Sunset Views
Before the heat of the day sets in, I recommend taking a scenic hike through Griffith Park or a drive along Mulholland Drive for iconic views of the cityscapes. After having some fresh local sushi, I would head to the Griffith Observatory, one of my absolute favorite places I have ever visited. Here, you can enjoy breathtaking views of Los Angeles and snap some selfies with the Hollywood Sign. I thoroughly enjoyed the exhibits. The inner nerd in me was like a child in a candy store. My favorite exhibits were the periodic table wall and the Foucault Pendulum.
Hopefully, you visit on a day with clear weather so you can take advantage of the telescopes outside for some spectacular views of LA.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My heartfelt shoutout goes to my husband, whose constant support and belief in me have been invaluable throughout this journey. His encouragement, patience, and the sacrifices he’s made have given me the strength and confidence to pursue my dreams wholeheartedly.

I also want to thank my collectors and patrons—each has played a vital role in my artistic growth. Their support, whether through commissioning work or acquiring pieces, affirms the value of what I do and fuels my passion to create more. Knowing my work resonates with others is deeply fulfilling and inspires me to keep pushing forward.

Lastly, I want to express my gratitude to the professional connections I’ve made along the way—mentors, collaborators, and organizations that have opened doors and offered guidance. Each interaction has taught me something invaluable and contributed to shaping my path as an artist. It’s the collective encouragement and belief of all these people that make this journey possible, and I’m grateful beyond words.

Website: https://www.MooreThanPortraits.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lrm_artwork/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LaurieMooreArtwork/

Other: If this will be published prior to 2/1/2025, please include this URL in addition to my others listed:
https://fortheloveofartfair.com/laurie-moore/