Illustrator Laurie Baars on GalleryOne

Gallery System partnered with the SF Girl by Bay?to give one of their readers a free GalleryOne art hanging system. The random drawing winner was Seattle-based surface designer Laurie Baars.

We had a chance to ask Laurie a few questions about her art career!

How long have you been an artist? And what can you tell us about your work and the inspiration behind it?

I always knew I wanted to be an artist. Some of my earliest memories are of sitting in my room happily drawing for hours on end. Then, for some reason, I lost touch with my creative self during high school and ended up getting a business degree in college.

I started taking drawing classes again after college, but I was already working in a business-oriented career and didn't have a lot of creative confidence.

It wasn't until I went back to school to study textiles that I started really exploring who I was as an artist. My work is heavily inspired by my textile background and my love of nature. I'm also a minimalist at heart and love modern design, so my art reflects those inspirations as well.

What caught your eye about the SF Girl by Bay Gallery System Art Hanging giveaway?

I loved the clean look of the system and the way that it made it possible to switch out artwork so easily without putting holes in the wall. Plus, I love the SF Girl by Bay blog and was inspired by the gallery wall that Victoria, the SF Girl founder, created in her living room using the system.

What was it about the art hanging system that you found most intriguing?

I knew picture hanging systems were used in art galleries but had not heard of them being used in the home. I love how the system opens up so many possibilities for being creative with the art on your walls. I've always hesitated to do a gallery wall because it's a lot of work and commitment, but now I can just play around and switch things up as often as I want.

The wall behind my TV has had the same 3 pictures for 12 years, so that was the first place I wanted to fix up. I also have several other walls in my home that are mostly smaller areas that I want to install tracks on as well.

What role does art play in your home?

A big role! I have a small 1926 Craftsman bungalow with limited wall space, but I've somehow managed to put art everywhere! I love acquiring new pieces at local art shows and when I travel. I also enjoy mixing in pieces of my own art.

Has the hanging system changed your approach in any way?

It's really freeing! It's made it so much easier to put pieces up and live with them for a little while to see if things are working. Then if they aren't, I can easily swap out pieces, move things around, and play with it until I get it just right.

Final thoughts?

It was easy to install, it's easy to switch pieces in and out, and you can't really even tell that it's there. I highly recommend it!

We couldn’t be happier about having our art hanging system in use by Ms. Baars, and we wish her many happy displays. If you’re using Gallery System and would like us to consider writing about your experience, please let us know —?[email protected].

Originally posted on www.GallerySystem.com.