Born and raised in Beirut, Lebanon, Lara B. (Lara Baghdassarian), discovered her love of painting at an early age. She pursued her passion for the arts by attending the Toros Roslin Art Academy of Beirut, and continued her studies at the Lebanese University of Fine Arts, where she graduated with honors in 2001. Eager to broaden her spectrum of art, she also fortified her educational experience by immersing herself in circles of established Armenian painters and sculptors. After graduation, she taught at multiple art institutes in Lebanon, and offered classes within her own private painting studio as well. Lara B. participated in a number of successful shows in Beirut, where she enjoyed early recognition of her artwork. Her paintings earned impressive distinction by winning first prize at the National University of Fine Arts and third prize at the Artistes Association of Beirut in 2001.

Since moving to the United States in 2002, Lara B. has continued to garner acclaim for her artwork, and has shown her artwork at collective exhibitions in New York, San Francisco, and Providence, as well as four solo shows in Providence, Oakland, San Jose, and Emeryville. Her work was also selected to appear on a magazine cover with international distribution in the winter of 2003. Presently, Lara B. resides in California where she has her studio and cultivates her prolific tradition.

Capturing the moment's complexity of the human psyche is the driving force of Lara B.'s paintings. The pensive physiognomies, ethereal scenes, and complex textures open gateways into worlds full of hidden secrets and emotions. Stillness transcends each image while bold lines playfully dance like notes on a musical score. A great variety of textures are implemented within these paintings, whether it be by gracefully draping veils across an impassioned woman's face, or by caulking thick strokes of paint which draw viewers into each of Lara B.'s ripened images. Windows and arches are prominently displayed, providing hope in the form of light and strength as stable edifices. Hues often seem dark and monotone at initial gaze; however, just as one's eyes need to accommodate upon entering into a dimly lit room, a more detailed viewing of Lara B.'s work reveals a true panorama of colors. This gradual perceptibility affords greater appreciation into the depth and complexity of Lara's paintings.

List of Pieces:

1. Layla

2. Nude 9

3. Aurora Borealis

4. Mother and Child

5. Mother’s Tenderness

6. Maria