Laura Irmis is an interdisciplinary artist based in St. Petersburg, Florida. Her exploration of science, clay and fire has spanned over 20 years. As a ceramicist, Laura defines nature as a main character in our world of today. It's through her stories of experiences that she showcases the vital role of nature.
artist statement & biography
Laura Irmis is an artist with a private studio at Atelier St. Pete, where she maintains a full-time practice. Her multidisciplinary work spans more than 20 years, exploring science, clay, and fine art. After earning her Master of Art in Education in 2024, Laura transitioned from more than two decades in art education to devote herself fully to her studio practice in 2025.
Rooted in personal experience, Laura’s work transforms struggle, trauma, and adversity into visual narratives of resilience and growth. Recurring motifs, expressive mark-making, and bold negative space—shaped by her graphic design background—reflect her fascination with chaos and the paths that shape us. Nature remains a central presence, inviting reflection on our connection to the natural world and the challenges it faces.
A graduate of Eckerd College with a B.A. in Visual Arts, Laura has worked with Pinellas County Schools, Creative Clay, and the Dalí Museum, and served as an artist-in-residence at Craftsman House Gallery. She also collaborated with ceramicist Charlie Parker as an instructor and curator. Her career in art education includes presenting ceramics workshops at the state and national levels, mentoring new teachers for Pinellas County Schools, and receiving a ceramics art award from the Florida Art Education Association. She has also been a two-time guest on The Art of Education University’s Art of Ed podcast on the expert episode.
Her work is sold at the Morean Arts Center, Atelier, The Merchant and The ArtBox in St. Augustine. She has been a guest twice on the Podcast (Art of Ed) for The Art of Education University on an expert episode focused on teaching ceramics.