About Laurel - Essence of Laurel
Thanks for visiting!
Hello and welcome — I’m Laurel, the heart and hands behind Art from the Heart. My journey as an artist began in the quiet after a storm — retiring from a fulfilling business career, then navigating the deep waters of loss after my husband of 42 years, Marty, passed away. What started as a way to heal became a calling to create, transforming grief into color, light, and story.
Today, I share this joyful chapter with my husband, Phil, whose love and encouragement inspire me daily. My work blends photography, pastels, hand-drawn details, and digital artistry into vibrant, soulful creations — each one carrying its own story of connection, transformation, and beauty found in both the ordinary and the extraordinary.
I believe creativity is a sanctuary — a space where color and movement invite us to pause, breathe, and feel. Alongside my visual art, I write poetry and reflections, including my book Emerging Voices Living On: A Journey Through Loss to Renewal, a companion for those traveling through change and seeking hope.
Here, you’ll find more than art — you’ll find pieces of my spirit, woven into every image and every word. My hope is that they bring warmth, joy, and inspiration into your world.
If something here speaks to your heart, I invite you to explore my Etsy shop for:
- Fine art prints from Art from the Heart
- Inspirational books and journals
- Special gifts designed to bring beauty and meaning into everyday life
And on my Journal page, you’ll find reflections, stories, and the inspirations behind my work — words meant to uplift and encourage.
Through art and words, I explore the beauty of life, the resilience of the spirit, and the endless ways we can inspire one another. Laurel D. Rund