"Above all, we are coming to understand that the arts incarnate the creativity of a free society. We know that a totalitarian society can promote the arts in its own way--that it can arrange for splendid productions of opera and ballet, as it can arrange for the restoration of ancient and historic buildings.
But art means more than the resuscitation of the past: it means the free and unconfined search for new ways of expressing the experience of the present and the vision of the future. When the creative impulse cannot flourish freely, when it cannot freely select its methods and objects, when it is deprived of spontaneity, then society severs the root of art."
- John F. Kennedy
Note: The article was printed in the December 18, 1962, issue of Look magazine as part of a special adaptation of "Creative America," a book scheduled to be released in October 1963.
Hello everyone,
I am writing to say hello and to share a brief update.
In my role with the advertising agency, I work with many creative individuals across the nation (often across the globe too): writers, radio & podcast hosts, producers, CEOs, CMOs, and tech wizards.
However, when I collaborate with local creatives and artists in my town, it provides a different stage to communicate & to be creative & to participate in the community.
Tami Chu, publisher and editor of the Edible Ojai & Ventura County publication, asked if I could photograph Bonito Coffee Roaster for Edible's Fall 2021 issue.
I am a fan of Bonito Coffee Roaster and inspired by Carlos Ramirez's vision & work. Carlos has an interesting story. He infuses his artful eye & roasting craftsmanship into every aspect of the business from Bonito's branding to the art of roasting. Carlos's storytelling and business for community intention is a testament to the vision of the future. Carlos even commissioned an artist to paint a mural in the roasting plant. I recommend visiting Bonito's website to learn more (AND to order coffee!) or to pick-up a new issue of Edible Ojai & Ventura County when it hits the stands this week.
Switching gears now. Has anyone seen Mary Neville's work?
Mary Neville is a successful artist based in the Ojai Valley. I remember when I first saw a few of her pieces hanging in a store in downtown Ojai. Her work is a perfect example of a spontaneous creative impulse. When one is viewing her work, it can bring forth a visceral recognition & a unique unearthing of something within.
The most interesting fact about Mary is she is self-taught and did not start painting until her 50's!
When Mary asked me to create & develop her graphic placement for the upcoming Ojai Studio Artists Tour, it was a special opportunity to work with a contemporary abstract painter. (see attached image)
To check-out Mary's work, you can visit her website or you can read her recent interview in SHOUTOUT LA magazine here.
I think that's plenty for now.
May this message tonight inspire the free and unconfined search, development, and refinement of our creative abilities in all its myriad of forms.
I hope everyone has a peaceful & relaxing Labor Day weekend.
Love,
Lauren xxx
PS. I am attaching an image of myself taken by Mariana Schulze a few years ago. It was a personal project, a series inspired by the void, spiritual impulse, and the unseen mysteries of creation. The images were taken at night with a black light. No color edits. Perhaps someday I will formally release the photography series and expand formally on the idea.
