Laura Sloop, a native of Miami, has been an artist for over 30 years. She has worked in many different artistic mediums.
Laura’s fish printing began years ago after a car accident forced her to abandon her career as a goldsmith. She was living in Homosassa, Florida (a fishing village) and decided to experiment with the technique she found in Smithsonian Magazine. She started catching her own fish and doing the rubbings. Soon, friends and fans were sending her so many fish, that she didn’t have to bait a hook or hit the water. That’s when “FISHLIPS” was born and Laura was “hooked”!
Laura began selling her prints on the art show circuit in 1988. Laura’s artworks can be found adorning the walls of well-known restaurants, offices and homes around the country. Laura worked full-time on the "show curcuit" for years, but grew weary of the pace. In keeping with her love of nature, she leaped at a position at the Homosassa Springs State Wildlife Park.
Now, besides regular duties at the park, she coordinates the "Nature Coast Fine Art & True Craft Show" which is held on the second weekend of each October.
Laura limits her art show appearances to just a few a year. As she says, “I get my Miami “fix” doing the "Coconut Grove Art Festival" every February". She also exhibits her work at the the Florida Folk Festival in White Springs and a standing show at Homosassa Springs Wildlife Park.
In recent years, Laura has expanded her line to include clothing and jewelry. Her fish-themed blouses and dresses draw customers who love her originality and uniqueness. Her latest line of jewelry has garnered her rave reviews and a world-wide clientale.