Denver-based artist Laura Shape is revolutionizing the art world by creating abstract paintings using leather sourced from invasive animal species. Her innovative work not only addresses critical environmental issues but also inspires and educates audiences about the importance of ecosystem preservation.
Laura Shape’s journey began in a small town in Ohio, nurtured by her artist and engineer parents who encouraged her to explore her creativity from a young age. She pursued graphic design at the Rochester Institute of Technology in New York and launched her career in print and web design in Los Angeles. However, her artistic trajectory took a transformative turn when she retired early and moved to Colorado, where she discovered her passion for fine art and leatherwork.
The rise of vegan leather trends prompted Laura to seek an ethically-sourced alternative to traditional animal-derived leather. This led her to utilize leather from invasive species, such as Burmese pythons from the Florida Everglades, lionfish from the Atlantic and Caribbean, and carp from the Mississippi River. By repurposing these materials, Laura addresses her ethical concerns while contributing to environmental restoration efforts
Laura Shape’s art is not only a creative endeavor but a mission-driven initiative. Each piece she creates provides financial incentive for hunters and fishers to capture these invasive animals, which helps safeguard native species and restore ecosystems. For instance, removing a single invasive lionfish can save up to 70,000 native reef fish, protecting the livelihoods of over 40 million people dependent on coral reefs. Similarly, each Burmese python removed helps protect over 70 species of native mammals, birds, and reptiles, and supports the $1.3 billion economy reliant on the Florida Everglades. And each invasive carp removed helps protect up to 150 native fish and endangered freshwater species, benefiting the $500 billion economy and the livelihoods of 1.5 million people dependent on the Mississippi River.
Laura’s innovative approach has garnered recognition and accolades. Her work has been exhibited in Colorado, Maryland, and internationally through juried exhibitions online. She received a prestigious Juror’s Award from Anna Davis, a Fellow at the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center. Laura’s art has been featured in prominent publications such as Latina, 5280, Luxe New Jersey, and Colorado Expression magazines. Her pieces are held in private collections around the world.
What sets Laura apart is her unique ability to turn environmental crises into beautiful, impactful art. Her pieces are conversation starters that raise awareness about the issue of invasive species and inspire creative solutions to ecological problems. By purchasing her artwork, collectors become part of this mission, contributing to environmental preservation while acquiring a unique and meaningful piece of art.
Laura Shape’s dedication to her craft and her mission is evident in every piece she creates. Her work offers a novel way for people to engage with environmental issues, providing both aesthetic pleasure and a sense of contribution to a greater cause. Laura’s art not only spreads beauty and joy but also serves as a daily reminder to its owners of the positive impact they are making in the world.
Each piece of Laura’s art tells a story of transformation and hope. By turning the leather of invasive species into stunning artworks, she gives new life to materials that otherwise signify destruction. This transformation is symbolic of the broader environmental efforts to restore balance to ecosystems affected by invasive species. The intricate patterns and vibrant colors of Laura’s pieces reflect the complexity and beauty of the natural world, inviting viewers to appreciate and protect it.
Laura Shape’s work exemplifies how art can be a powerful tool for environmental advocacy. Her innovative use of invasive species leather highlights the urgent need to address ecological imbalances and offers a creative solution to a pressing problem. By bringing attention to the issue of invasive species through her art, Laura fosters a deeper understanding and appreciation of the delicate balance of our ecosystems.
For Laura, art is not just about creating beautiful objects; it is about making a difference. Her belief is that anyone can change the world with a little innovation. And her commitment to using her artistic talents to support environmental conservation is a testament to the potential of art to drive positive change. Laura’s work is a call to action, encouraging others to think creatively about how they can contribute to solving the world’s environmental challenges.
Laura Shape’s art is a beacon of hope and inspiration. It reminds us that even the most daunting problems can be addressed through creativity, innovation, and dedication. As Laura continues to explore new ways to incorporate invasive species leather into her work, she remains committed to her mission of environmental stewardship and artistic excellence.
For more information about Laura Shape and her work, visit her website, follow her on Instagram, or connect with her on Facebook.
Published by: Khy Talara
