Artist Statement

I find peace and comfort in transforming my thoughts and feelings into art. The vibrant colors bring me joy. Although it may be hard to separate the artist from his/her work, I like to think of my pieces as distinct creations, each having its own voice, appearance and energy. I hope you enjoy my work and most of all I hope it spreads at least a little bit of inspiration.

Biography

Ed McLaurin (Edward Jerome McLaurin) is a Los Angeles based visual artist known for his unique style of combining representation and abstraction within his artwork.

Raised in the Southern United States, he was inspired by other great artists in his family including his grandfather, uncle and brother. McLaurin has been creating art all his life. While attending Velma Jackson High School in Camden MS, he received an art scholarship for college. His achievements in art allowed him to receive the William D. Rowell Memorial Art Reward and a B.A. in Studio Art from Millsaps College in 2005. As an Art Director of Operation Shoestring in Jackson MS, he helped many students develop an appreciation for the arts. In 2009, McLaurin moved to Los Angeles CA where he connected and studied with artists such as Paul Daniels, EL Mac, Jeremy Okai Davis, Tyree “Ree” Dillihay, Justin Bua, Greg “Craola” Simkins, Shepard Fairey and Steven Harrington.

McLaurin has exhibited his work at The Lewis Art Gallery in Jackson MS, The Southern Breeze Art Gallery in Ridgeland MS, The Parkway Interiors Gallery in Clinton MS, The Beverly Hills Country Club in Beverly Hills CA, The Key Club in Hollywood CA, The Mezz in downtown Los Angeles CA and The Lexington Theater in downtown Los Angeles CA.

Collectors of his work include Actor Omari Hardwick, Rapper 50 Cent, MS District Attorney Scott Colom, The Kellogg Foundation, The Mae Bertha Carter Learning Center, family, friends and many others.

McLaurin currently lives in Los Angeles CA and continues to nurture his passion for his talent and his ambition to inspire others through the arts.