Laura Hanson Koch

Laura was born in Iowa, and as a child she was surrounded by Grant Woods type landscapes of the midwest.  Her early inspiration came from her artistic father, and her favorite post impressionist painters like Van Gogh, Mastise, and Gauguin. 

She began her formal education at the University of Northern Iowa after receiving a teacher’s scholarship.  She later continued her education at Arizona State University.  Floral design became her occupation for over 40 years.  This satisfied her need for creativity by blending her love of nature with design.  She earned a Master Florist certification in 1978.  Her specialty became weddings and large floral statement pieces. In 2015 she relocated to Clarkdale, Az. to focus on her first love, painting.  She was drawn to  Northern Arizona’s natural beauty, and the thriving art community.  Laura has exhibited her work in numerous western states, winning best of show awards in Oregon, Idaho, and Montana.  She has also done large mural projects and book covers.