Lafa Baker

My name is Lafa Baker, I live in Vancouver Washington. I have been an artist since I was in junior high. I am mostly self-taught. My garage has been converted into my studio and my dog and cat accompany me while I work. Art has served as my therapeutic outlet for many years. To sit at a desk with paper and pencil or a canvas and paint is an escape for me. Much of my art is influenced by my travels and experiences. I have lived and traveled in Latin America and am very passionate about the people, music, food and customs. My last series was inspired by my travels to Argentina, Uruguay, Brazil and Mexico. Blessed to be living in the North West, my upcoming series will illustrate some of the many outdoor recreational opportunities that I enjoy taking part in and admire here in the mountains, lakes and rivers of the North West. Dance is a big part of my life as well and it is reflected in the movement, bright color and repeat pattern depicted in my works. Much like dance, subjects in my paintings provoke feelings of despair, tenderness, guilt, joy and vulnerability. I like painting on objects as well. I have painted images on chairs, trunks, tables and other items. I plan to do more of this work in the near future. I show my work in galleries, local businesses and most recently at art festivals. Talking with people who identify personally with select works of mine is very flattering and gratifying to me.