Laura Brino is a freelance artist and singer/songwriter who studied illustration at Maryland Institute College of Art and art education at Towson University. With a background in painting, illustration and mixed media, Laura is driven to tell stories through her artwork. She finds inspiration from the people around her, nature, street art, and music. She is constantly trying to find ways to infuse her lyrical voice into her paintings, marrying both imagery and prose.
As a songwriter, Laura has released 4 albums to date, both under her name as well as her band, Lily and the Pearl. A review states "...her songs are the warm coffee on a rainy day. Or the oh-so-sought-after light at the end of the tunnel in the world of folk music. She maintains her femininity without being too demanding about it. Her beauty in her words is just as important as her folk music stamina that is very important this day and age..."
In 2013, Laura started Jovenes Artistas, an after school arts program that gives youth facing adversity a safe environment for self expression, confidence and motivation to stay in school. The program combines mentoring, arts experience and emotional support to allow students to express their personal stories in a creative way. She currently works as the Outreach Coordinator at Maryland Hall.
Over the years, Laura has worked as a hairstylist, a teacher and an arts integration specialist, but she always comes back to art and music. Being able to spread the healing power of the arts to children and adults inspires her to continue to create. In 2015, Laura opened the multi purpose space The Shop-a hair salon, art gallery and performance venue. She sold The Shop in 2019, but continues to do hair a few days a week.
Laura is currently recording her 5th studio album which will be released later in 2021.