Laura Gomel received art degrees from The American Academy of Art and also Columbia College. Laura gained experience and had her first exhibitions in the vibrant Chicago art scene of the 80’s and 90’s. Laura's inspiration comes from a wide range of influences. Society, politics, and pop culture dominate. She observes, collects, and shows you what she thinks about it. Her personality becomes juxtaposed into every topic she approaches, and is often sprinkled with wit and sarcasm. Laura works primarily in acrylic paint but also in watercolor, oil and graphite She is a versatile, emotive, comedic and covertly political artist who doesn’t shy away from color, taboo, or intelligent thought.

Laura is the Director, owner, and curator of 317 Art Collective, owner and teacher at SmARTy Pants Rockford Kid’s Art Studio, and founding member of Fringe Art Syndicate. She also does murals, teaches classes at museums and libraries and sits on several committees for Rockford Area Arts Council and Greenwich Village Art Fair. Laura is also on the Board of Directors for The Rockford River District Association.