Painting Is Good For The Soul
- Local Insider
- 42 minutes ago
- 3 min read
Q&A with Laura Wolanin from @Praisethesunshop
Rochester-based artist Laura Wolanin is known for her whimsical, colorful murals that infuse joy into every wall they touch. With a background rooted in fine arts and a heart full of curiosity, Laura’s work blends storytelling with a touch of magic, whether she’s painting a private residence or a local brewery.
Fueling the Process
What do you listen to while working—music, silence, something else? Never ever silence— always something playing! I’m a huge podcast listener while I paint. Some of my favorites are Stuff You Should Know, This American Life, 10% Happier, Oprah’s Super Soul Conversations, TED Radio Hour, The Mel Robbins Podcast, Wiser Than Me, Snap Judgment, Hidden Brain, and The Grey Area.
Do you have a favorite snack that keeps you going while you’re painting all day? If I’m not working at home, I always start my day with an almond milk latte from a local café. It fuels the high-energy creativity I aim for.
Early bird painter or late-night artist? Definitely early. Once 5pm hits, I mentally and physically clock out.
Creative Rhythms
If you could live inside one of your murals for a day, which one would you choose?Definitely my Mango Peach Beach mural at Genesee Brewery. It doesn’t get better than lounging on a hot beach by the ocean in a comfy chair with a delicious beverage!
What’s the most unusual place you’ve ever found inspiration? I’m not sure if it’s unusual, but my boyfriend and I spend a lot of time at The Little Café. I always leave feeling inspired—the nightly music and rotating art displays are incredible. I absolutely love it there!
Let’s say you can only use one color for the rest of your life—what would it be and why? Yellow, for sure! There are so many beautiful shades, and they all bring me joy. Praise the sun!
If you could paint any famous landmark in the world, what would it be—and how would you make it your own? Anything rooted in nature! I love painting mountains, trees, and flowers, and I’d amplify the magic with wild colors, iridescent paints, and glitter.
If you could collaborate with any artist, living or dead, who would it be? Rochester has such an amazing community of creatives, but I’d say Scar Markham of Flour Pail Kids. Their work is wacky and fun—I love it!
Beyond the Brush
What’s one thing people might be surprised to learn about you? I’m in a post-hardcore/emo band called Mostly Ghosts. It’s my outlet for channeling frustration with the state of the world. I’m usually light and cheerful, but sometimes you just need to scream—and this is the perfect place to do that. Give us a listen!
If you could time travel and give a piece of advice to your younger artist self, what would it be? Freelance life is tough, and there were plenty of times I took gigs out of financial necessity. I don’t regret it, but I’d tell younger me to start saying no sooner—and to recognize her worth earlier.
"I love teaming up with awesome local businesses!"
Local Color
What’s the most underrated local spot in Rochester that people should visit for a burst of creativity? Rochester Greenovation! It’s an incredible resource for décor, building materials, art supplies, and thrifted goods. I try to avoid buying new whenever possible, and this place is a goldmine.
Rochester’s street art scene is growing - what excites you most about the local art community right now? While I’m not officially part of the street art scene yet and my murals tend to be smaller interior pieces in private spaces, I’ve been deeply inspired by the energy in our city. I’d love to find more ways to be part of that movement and contribute to the public art scene in Rochester.
