Small Business Spotlight: Lauren Padian
One of the greatest privileges of running a small business is the opportunity to support other small businesses. From the time I began Hazen at the age of 9, I have encountered many people who have supported me in my work and the pursuit of my aspirations for this business. Those are the individuals who have forever influenced and shaped my life by instilling in me the courage to pursue my dreams, and oftentimes, opening the doors through which I could best pursue those dreams.
My hope for our Small Business Spotlight series is to open doors for other small business owners who are hustling daily to grow their businesses. I am confident that they believe their products bring life, creativity and joy to both themselves and their customers, and I hope we not only encourage them through this series but also nurture their success using the tools and opportunities we have graciously been given.
Meet our Small Business Highlight, Lauren Padian!
"Lauren is a self taught artist whose work is influenced by the mood evoking qualities of color and is led by intuitive brushstrokes. Lauren’s work is mainly non representational, focusing on shapes and color, movement and texture. She works in a variety of mediums, such as acrylics, oil sticks, painted paper, and charcoal. In addition to painting on canvas, Lauren enjoys working on intricate, hand cut paper collages that possess a three dimensional quality."
Q: When did you develop a love for painting?
A: I’ve always been a very creative person, but I didn’t start painting until I got my first apartment after college. I had a lot of empty walls and wanted to fill them with something pretty. That’s when my love for painting started.
Q: What materials do you use in your work? Paints, canvas, paper, etc?
A: I use mixed media - primarily acrylics, pencil, oil sticks, and some paper collage elements. Most of my work is done on canvas.
Q: From where do you draw your inspiration?
A: My days are busy taking care of my 3 young daughters, so I often draw inspiration in the beauty of everyday life. So much of my paintings are composed of intuitive and expressive brushstrokes, primarily influenced by my feelings that day. I believe that painting is the best therapy and I need it to unwind. I also draw a lot of inspiration from nature and the unexpected color palettes that can be found on a long walk, or even in my own backyard.
Q: Playing with colors and textures excites us when designing jewelry. What excites you when painting?
A: Color! I truly believe in the mood evoking qualities of color and the impact that a colorful piece of art can have in a space. Life can be so serious sometimes so why not surround yourself in colors that bring you joy!
Q: Any business leaders or artists that inspire or influence you and your brand?
A: I am always inspired by other artists and the beauty they create! I love Teil Duncan’s vibrant and unexpected use of color in her landscapes and beach scenes. I am also a huge fan of Sally King Benedict’s fun and playful pieces. Her work, specifically her faces, make me so happy!
Q: What can we look forward to seeing from your brand in the near future?