Laura Ward

Images left to right: Discolour; Laura Ward (photographer Tristan McKenzie); Fractal.

Tell us a bit about yourself

I am an emerging multidisciplinary artist, practicing and living in Boorloo (Perth). My focus is on the human body and its incredible capabilities both inside and out. In 2023 I began experimenting with textile, print and embroidery, this is when my passion for bead work, fabric and embroidery was born.

I love everything thrifting, baking, art, and movies.

What does your work aim to say?

My work aims to encourage and generate conversations around health issues, personal struggles and the incredible capabilities of the human body. Research began in my third year of studies at Edith Cowan University where I looked into external and internal impacts on the human body, which drove my graduating body of work Internal/External.

My work highlights the unspoken health issues women experience such as PCOS (Polycystic ovary syndrome), IBS (Irritable bowel syndrome), and anxiety, and encourages conversations around these debilitating conditions.

The forms I embroider, such as bruises, lacerations, and wounds, are depicted with both realistic colour choices and abstract, abject depictions.

Who (or what) are your biggest influences?

I am deeply inspired by my grandparent’s passion and talent in arts and textile. They often share ideas and gift me beads, fabrics, pastels, and paints that I use in my own works.

Industry inspirations include Marina Abramović, Julia Gutman, Polina Osipova, Kathleen Ryan, and Louise Bourgeois. With common themes of the body, the mind, and sexuality.

Performance art has always fascinated me, as artists push the limits of their bodies and create relationships between performer and audience. This drove a 2024 performance at Edith Cowan University which involved stitching and installing work in a public space for long periods of time and testing my own threshold.

Surrealist art, feminist art, and contemporary art heavily influence my work.

How has your career developed and evolved?

In 2024 I completed a Double Bachelor of Visual Arts and Photomedia with a minor in Public Relations at Edith Cowan University. During the four years at the Mount Lawley campus I was involved in three graduate exhibitions, two fashion shows, and volunteered as a front of house member of Spectrum Project Space and Gallery 25.

Since graduating I have participated in the 2024 Hatched Exhibition at the Perth Institute of Contemporary Arts, been a part of the All The Rage Feminine Rage event and have multiple exhibitions lined up for 2025.

I have an upcoming residency at the Perth Institute of Contemporary Arts where I will develop my practice and network with other creatives and industry personnel.

Describe your studio or workspace

I am currently working out of my Subiaco apartment where I live with my partner. I have a small studio with beautiful natural light, a view of lush trees and bright decorations and materials. Hundreds of polaroid pictures adorn my wall alongside a pom pom garland and textile bunting. My desk has my sewing machine, handmade ceramics, plenty of notebooks and writing materials and a trolley organised with thousands of beads and textiles. A futon functions as a second working station where I sit and stitch for hours on end.

Describe your dream project

What a question!

I suppose my dream project would be collaborating with other women+ artists who share similar ideas, visions, and experiences. Working with textiles as a nod to generational history, the female craft and a love for everything texture. I imagine bright colours, a celebration of the arts and incredible artists.

What is the best piece of advice you've received?

I was once told to go into the arts (and I suppose anything) with the mindset and preparation for rejection, because you will be rejected more than accepted.

For me that was so wise, as I have applied for various jobs, exhibitions, and residencies and have been unsuccessful. It stings, but also builds resilience and the desire to keep applying, trying, and wanting. It also makes the successful applications so precious, because everything happens for a reason and maybe the unsuccessful applications were not meant to be.

How do you overcome creative blocks?

I surround myself with loved ones, other creatives who can understand and relate, and also allow myself time to reflect and be alone.

Looking through photos and past accomplishments is also very helpful.

How do you stay motivated in your art practice?

I cannot see myself doing anything other than art or being a part of the art industry. When applying for jobs, nothing else stands out, and nothing excites me more than being part of art events and opportunities. Sharing my art and practice is beyond special and the dream is to do this for the rest of my life.

How do you balance your personal life and your art practice?

Writing down all aspects of life, whether that be - family and friends, health and fitness, work, art practice, or alone time, I try make sure each is included at some point every week. It is unrealistic for me to have an even balance of each, uncontrollable factors impact some more than others but I make sure I do things that bring me joy and ground me, while also creating work that makes me feel full.

Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?

No matter what you love there will be someone out there who will appreciate and connect, and there will be an opportunity or event that will allow you to share what you do. Time is a funny and challenging thing, and I often get wrapped up in wanting everything instantly, yet that can be challenging and bring you down. Just keep making, doing and moving, and everything happens for a reason.

Exhibition poster:

Connect with Laura:

Instagram: @laurawardart

Instagram: @laurawardphotography