Artist of the Month: Lori Ery

A Lifelong Creative Journey

For Lori Ery, art has never been just a hobby; it has been a lifelong companion. Growing up in Dearborn Heights, Lori sought out every creative outlet available, from pottery to card making. While her early dreams of becoming an art teacher took a backseat to life’s other journeys, her creative spark remained undiminished. In 2019, a simple invitation from a friend to attend an oil painting class sparked a transformative new chapter. What began as an experiment quickly evolved into a profound passion.

After a successful career as a corporate graphic artist—where "making exactly what I was told" was the daily standard—Melinda reclaimed her personal artistic voice in 2015. Since then, her work has evolved from the disciplined world of figure drawing into a soulful exploration of nature and abstract expression.

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Style & Inspiration

Now retired in Rose City, Lori spends her days translating her "great imagination" onto canvas. Working primarily in oil and watercolor, Lori’s style is defined by vibrancy. She specializes in "colors that pop," favoring subjects that celebrate the beauty of the natural world and rural life. Whether it is the intricate feathers of a bird, the bold petals of a large flower, or the weathered character of a Michigan barn, Lori’s work is designed to evoke joy. Her paintings are an invitation to see the world through a lens of brightness and optimism.

Community Roots

Lori’s connection to the local art scene is deep and dedicated. She currently serves as the Secretary for the West Branch Creative Arts Association (WBCAA) and finds great fulfillment as the Chairperson of the Youth Art Show. For Lori, fostering a love for the arts in the next generation is vital, ensuring that children in our community remain inspired by and engaged with all forms of creative expression.

Artist Insights

• A Personal Favorite: Among her portfolio, Lori is particularly proud of her painting of "Gunny," her daughter’s cat—a piece that captures both technical skill and personal sentiment.

• Words of Wisdom: Lori’s advice for emerging artists is simple but powerful: "Push on and practice. The more practice, the better artist you become. And never let anyone tell you your art is not good enough."

Her Works

A small selection of Lori's Work