MEET LORI MILLER 

My art is rooted in curiosity, playfulness, and the sheer joy of seeing where a painting takes me. I am a self-taught artist, and I came to painting simply because I wanted to have fun and try something new. After stumbling upon a few videos, I became curious and decided to pick up a brush and see what would happen.

I primarily work with acrylic paint, often incorporating stencils and markers. I love beginning with a blank canvas and watching the image unfold. Sometimes I have an idea of where a painting is going, and sometimes the painting takes an unexpected turn. I've learned to trust that process rather than fight it.

My work is heavily influenced by emotion and by the way color can express feelings that words sometimes cannot. I enjoy looking at what other artists are creating, taking inspiration from them, and then putting my own twist on it. One of the most important things I've learned is that inspiration doesn't mean copying. I want to take what sparks something in me and make sure that "ME" is always present in the finished piece.

My style has evolved over time. I began experimenting with pouring paint before becoming increasingly drawn to abstract art. That evolution continues to be part of the excitement for me. I don't believe mistakes have to be mistakes—paint can cover them, transform them, or become part of the story.

Ultimately, I hope my paintings make people feel something. I hope they see fun, color, and playfulness in them. I hope they get a little "tickled" by what they see.

For me, the greatest joy is standing in front of a blank canvas, not knowing exactly what it will become, and enjoying the journey all the way to the final piece.

Personal Notes on Favorite Pieces

The Gnome

It started out completely different and was going to be in black and white. I saw a picture of it and wanted to try making one. Halfway through it took a slightly different turn and I saw a gnome in it. From there it became a wonderfully colorful Gnome painting. It made me realize I can take inspiration from other art, just always remember to put "ME" in it. Not a copy of someone else.