With an affinity for color and contrast, artist Laura Lafrance creates eye-catching patterns.  Learn about what inspires her in the first installment of our Featured Artist series.

Where do you live?

I live in downtown Fort Lauderdale.

Do you find that living in Florida influences your aesthetic?

I definitely find myself influenced by Florida.  The ambiance, the youth, and the frequent festivals around where I live are especially inspiring.

When did you begin designing textiles? What inspired you to get started? 

I began designing textiles two years ago in my first textile design class with Mr. Milman.  I loved it the minute I created my first shape in Illustrator.

Tell us about your creative process. How has it evolved since you started designing? 

When I began designing textiles, I would create shapes and eclectically put them together.  The evolution of my process began when I started using my surroundings as my inspiration.  I began taking photographs of textures, shapes, and sketches and would use those to develop beautiful textile designs.

What is your workspace like?

My workplace looks like any other artist, where crazies live! I know where everything is, though, and there is a method to the madness. I have a desk for digital work, and a corner where I sew and craft.

What kind of sewing do you do?

I design and sew resort clothing for contemporary women.  I get crafty, as well, and I may sew a handbag here and there but I spend most of my time sewing clothing.  I am sending some items to Russia for Fashion Week this year – we’ll see how it goes!

Where do you seek inspiration for new designs?

I look around me. Some days I go for a walk and take photographs.  Other days I am inspired by my crafts.  It depends on my mood, too.  Sometimes there is a story behind my patterns and sometimes just boredom.  All I know is, I get a design from every scenario.

We love your bright sense of color – what inspires it?

Given my background from the island of Haiti, I do not shy away from colors.  I haven’t been there in over 10 years, but from what I can remember there are carnivals and lots of festivities.  Plus, through social media, I can still witness everything from the combination of rich colors to the breathtaking culture.

Any trends you’re loving right now?

I am loving floral patterns! They are my go-to print.

Thanks for chatting with us, Laura!  We cannot wait to see what the new year brings you and your work.  Be sure and follow Laura on Facebook.