Q: Can you tell us a little bit about your craft and how you got started?

A: I used to be a photographer. But after I had a stroke 4 1/2 years ago, I couldn't lift my camera anymore. I'm right handed, and I lost the use of that hand. So, I picked up a brush with my left and started painting. Everything you see here - I've painted with my left hand.

Q: Where do you find inspiration for you work?

A: I used to be an avid outdoorsman, and now I take that inspiration and turn it into color. I started with abstracts - just using color to tell stories. I've moved into landscapes and more realistic pieces too. But everything I create comes from my brain.

Q: What does a typical day in your studio look like?

A: It's a little chaotic - in the best way. I work with oils, acrylics, and pastels, so I usually have color everywhere. I run a frame shop with my wife too, so I go back and forth between painting and helping customers. And sometimes I'll scrap a piece midway and start over. That's just part of the process.

Q: How does being part of the Monroe-West Monroe creative community influence your work?

A: It's incredible. I'm part of another gallery on 6th street, and just being around other talented artists constantly teaches me something new. The support and collaboration in this community - it's unmatched.

Q: What's one piece you've created that holds special meaning to you?

A: There's one called Blue Bell. It's one of my favorites. But I also love the Mardi Gras piece - it's people going wild in the streets of New Orleans. Honestly, I only put pieces up for sale that I truly love.

Q: What advice would you give someone just starting out?

A: Don't stop. Just keep going. There are things you need to know: colors and their relationships, confidences to just get it on the canvas - no need for a straight line- and thick skin. Not everyone will love your work, and that's okay. Art is about connection, and the right person will find your piece.

Q: Where can people find your art?

A: My wife and I run Artistic Designs, a frame shop and gallery at 1131 Forsythe Avenue in Monroe. I also show work at the Courtyard Gallery in West Monroe. Eventually, I'll have a website too, but for now, you can come see it in person.

Larry's story is a reminder that creativity knows no limits. Through each brushstroke, he's not just painting - he's preserving, learning, and sharing joy with each bold color and expressive canvas.

Follow along with more makers like Larry in our ongoing Meet the Makers series - highlighting the people bringing color and creativity to Monroe-West Monroe.