“Expression”: A Monograph
“The Artwork and musings of Laurence Angeline”
“I do artwork because I have to do it. I can’t do pieces when someone has told me I need to. It’s just an impulse. ”
“Expression” is a monograph following the life story and work of artist and musician, Laurence Angeline. Revealing his long-term struggles with addiction and mental illness, this book serves as a representation of the depth, power, and beauty of art amid life's complex challenges.
The text is an accumulation of conversations, observations, and stories gathered over months, and the images are part of Larry’s collection. All of the text you read and the images you see were created by Larry and me to produce an authentic monograph. I hope that this story inspires and moves anyone with a passion for art, and takes you on an illustrative journey filled with hope, perseverance, and beauty.
Go to https://laurenceangeline.squarespace.com for more information
the words
Over six months of conversations, I transcribed the stories Larry candidly shared, carefully pairing each excerpt with his artwork to create a seamless narrative throughout the book.
Filled with raw, honest reflections on the trials, tribulations, and triumphs of addiction and trauma, each piece of art in this collection mirrors Larry’s mental state at the time of its creation. The stylistic shifts throughout the book form a visual timeline of the different phases of his life, offering a powerful glimpse into the evolving mind of the artist.
“You aren’t dying, you’re fighting. And that’s why it hurts so much”
the songs
In addition to drawing and painting, Larry found inspiration in other forms of expression—most notably, music and poetry. His songs and spoken word pieces are featured throughout the book, with the lyrics serving as a direct portal to his voice and inner world.
“But I will sing to you a song to guide your way, through the mysteries of dusk, to your brand new day.”
the subjects
Larry has a knack for capturing the essence of people he's encountered, bringing them to life in a vibrant, interactive way. Even within his impressionistic style, his subjects seem to leap off the page with striking realism.
Throughout the book, there is a consistent dual dialogue between Larry’s actual words from conversations interwoven with my own interpretations, offering insight into his stories and the reasoning behind the images presented. This curation further underscores the central theme of duality between the mental and the creative.
“Remember that the elephant has great memories. And with its monarch winged ears, it can magically fly away to a better place”
Larry is still practicing art regularly and his work has been featured in numerous art shows and curated galleries. For more information or to see additional work, you can find him on Instagram @laurenceangeline
