Artist Information
Laura G. Kirby

I have enjoyed and worked at drawing and painting all my life. Even as a small child, when asked what I wanted to be when I grew up, I always answered, "an artist."

I graduated from Illinois State University in 1981 with a degree in fine art. My main focus in college was drawing and printmaking (lithography). A few years after graduation, I went back to school, did graduate work in education, and got a teaching certificate. I then went to work as a High School Art teacher. Teaching turned out to be something I really enjoyed. Working with high school students can be a lot of fun and even inspirational. Teaching, however, is a very demanding profession and leaves little time for work in the studio.

While I did continue to draw and paint, the work was sporadic. I began to feel very torn; I wanted to be a good teacher but I also wanted to put more time into artwork.

In the early 90's, I became a licensed falconer. This had a major impact on the kind of art I was producing. Hawks and falconry inspire great passion in those involved. It seems quite logical that my focus in art would turn to birds of prey. I truly believe that in order for art work to be successful, it must have passion. There is a deep, familiar passion to be found when you make a connection with the natural world. It is an understanding and acceptance of the savage garden and your place in it. Practicing falconry returned me to the wonder of youth. I have learned a great deal through my association with hawks and falconry. I believe it has made a better artist and a better person.

In 1994, I formed my own company, Yarak. The word Yarak is an archaic falconry term meaning " slightly hungry, eager to hunt". I felt it was very appropriate for an artist who was basically just starting out. I began showing and selling work at various falconry events and found great support within the falconry community.

By 1997, I decided to take a leave of absence from my teaching position in order to devote more time to the production of artwork. I began showing work at art fairs and small renaissance faires in 1998. In the spring of 1999, I resigned from my teaching position and am now committed to making my living as an artist.

Primarily, my work consists of original art and fine art prints depicting birds of prey. Additionally, I have been commissioned to do various other animals and other subject matter. Most of my work is very realistic and highly detailed. I enjoy the challenge of trying to capture the life and spirit of the noble creatures I portray.

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