Laara was born and raised in Edmonton where she lived for 30 years before moving to Calgary.  She received her education at the University of Alberta and the University of Calgary and before retiring, had a career in educational counselling psychology in the Calgary and Edmonton Public School Boards as well as in private practice.

Laara has been drawing and playing with colours all her life.  She is also an avid quilter and enjoys collecting many beautiful fabrics. Over the years she has taken numerous workshops in different mediums but is most passionate about painting in watercolour and in pastel.  She enjoys painting wildlife (especially owls), rural scenes, people cityscapes and sometimes flowers.  More recently Laara has been learning about acrylic and oil painting as well as abstract art.

Laara is is always excited to learn new things and to explore new techniques.  Travelling is part of her retirement plan, where she collects new images in the hope of painting them.

Laara is an active member of the Calgary Community Painters Society and the Parkdale Art Club.