Welcome to Galería Azul, featuring artwork created and curated by Chicago artist Laurie Buman. It’s a community-focused space inspired by the life, work and heritage of artist Frida Kahlo.
Immerse yourself in the layers of imagery and meaning of Laurie’s original, mixed-media artwork, then peruse her exquisite collection of handmade objects and artifacts from her distant travels. And don't miss the opportunity to experience the captivating work of our featured guest artist. Galería Azul invites you to embark on a journey through creativity and culture.
Visit Galería Azul, Studio #4F4014 in the vibrant Bridgeport Art Center.
Open to the public: 3rd Friday Open Studios 7:00–10:00 PM
Private viewing on request: artistlauriebuman@gmail.com
guest artist
Join us for opening night featuring artist Jessie Smith-Larsen, Friday, May 16, 2025.
Jessie Smith-Larsen
Artist Statement
As a multimedia artist, I am drawn to what lingers beneath the surface—those forgotten, unnoticed, or obscured moments that form the bedrock of our shared human experience. My work—spanning painting, sculpture, and installation—functions as a kind of excavation. Like fossilized strata, each piece holds a layered narrative, built through texture, shadow, and form.
I explore memory, erosion, and the passage of time, using material and process to echo the natural world’s way of recording history. Deep crevices, embedded fragments, and sediment-like layering become metaphors for the emotional and cultural deposits we carry. I am inspired by the complexity of what we leave behind—both intentionally and unconsciously.
Born in Panama and raised in Miami, I now live and work in Chicago, where the urban landscape continues to influence my sense of space and permanence. My hope is that viewers will find both familiarity and discovery in these works—moments of resonance buried within the depths.
— Jessie Smith-Larson
Jessie Smith-Larsen on view through June 20, 2025.
Join us for opening night, Friday, May 16, 2025 from 7:00–10:00 PM
Private viewing on request: artistlauriebuman@gmail.com
© 2024 Laurie Buman. All rights reserved.