Laura is an artist, independent curator, and veteran member of the Maker Works community. Her work focuses on starting cultural conversations around social justice, climate change, and racial equality. She’s well versed in nearly all the tools found in our shop. In fact, all of the pieces pictured below (and the ones on her website made from wood or steel) were fabricated at Maker Works! Keep reading to find out how our community workspace has been an integral part of her artistic process throughout the years.
Laura seated in the Gabo Chair
Powder Coated Steel
Laura Earle (She/Her)
Farmington Hills/Detroit, MI
Artist and Independent Curator
www.lauraearle.com
Permeable Spaces: Coffee Table
Reclaimed Ash, Stainless Steel, Acrylic
What can you tell us about your art and areas of interest in making?
Art making is central to my way of understanding the world. If something is puzzling me, or is somehow unresolved for me, I find it very informative to make artwork about it. The process of selecting materials and moving through the making process connects me with deeper ways of knowing the subject and myself. As for materials, I work across several disciplines and mediums including sculpture, painting (oil and aqueous), assemblage and installation artwork in metal, wood, glass, acrylic, found objects and paper.
Cherry Book with Coptic Binding
Laser engraved illustration
What is your relationship to Maker Works and how did you get involved with the shop?
Volunteering as a mentor for FIRST Robotics was my introduction to Maker Works soon after it opened. I joined as member #68! I’d describe my first tour as akin to being a kid in a candy shop! The place is a playground for adult makers!
Memory Table
Reclaimed Walnut, Reclaimed Steel, Glass + Found Objects
How has Maker Works, access to shared tools, and a shared community impacted you and helped you reach your goals?
Over the years, I completed checkout classes on the majority of the equipment and loved the ability to move fluidly between shops to work in metal, wood and other materials all under one roof. Since I often combine materials in my pieces, this is an important benefit. The camaraderie and shared enthusiasm for making is contagious, and there’s no beating the braintrust of makers getting together to solve a problem!
Powerplay
Reclaimed Cherry, Steel, Acrylic + Glass
What would you say to others about your experiences with Maker Works and why is it a valuable part of the community?
Maker Works has been a central resource to myself and my family. We’ve loved learning and making together, and our time at Maker Works building skills and relationships really moved my career forward as an independent curator and artist.
If you’re an artist looking for a collaborative, supportive community and versatile workspace, Maker Works is the place for you. The best way to get start getting involved is to take a tool safety class in your area of interest. Click the button below to see which classes we already have scheduled!