Lou Sparks-Smith is a self taught artist who began her design career as a weaver. A love of texture and a great appreciation for the interconnectedness of diverse elements is reflected in her pieces. Her passion for the written word is also a major factor in her creations. Her poetry speaks to the personal journeys of people in a variety of experiences. Her intent is to offer some sense of hope and spiritual order in a world that is very chaotic for most people.
Raised in Florida, remnants of beachlife often appear in her work. Her love of the southwest is also an influence, sometimes subtle...sometimes obvious. Above all, she strives to impart a message that affirms the existence of a divine presence that honors all positive belief systems. Her eclectic collection of poetry, multimedia wall ornaments and painted furniture cover a variety of themes that range in scope from the whimsical and humorous to the soulful and contemplative. Her meditation chairs are often purchased for individuals who are faced with great emotional or physical challenges. Her hope is that they carry the energy of strength and joy.
Having lived as a single parent for ten years, the memory of women trying to balance family and work has never faded. For this reason, she often employs women who are seeking serenity and flexibility in their work and family environment. Everyone at Portraits (her company name) is involved in the design and execution of the pieces. This collective focus greatly contributes to the inspiration and spiritual messages that leave her studio. A relaxed and intimate atmosphere make it possible for each piece to be handcrafted with love.
Her Mission is to give something back to the world that will be a source of beauty as well as comfort. Most importantly, she strives to help individuals connect with their authentic selves. Lou is especially inspired by her husband, Jeff, and her son, Gram. They share her home, cope with her "unique style" of domestic organization, and challenge her with new ideas and spiritual dimensions to explore. Finally, her love of animals, expecially her pets, flavor many of the creations which bear her name. They are frequent visitors during her creative process.
