Artist Bio
Laila de Paulis (born in Sweden, 1988, raised in Finland, Kirkkonummi) is a fine art painter. She currently lives in Indiana, United States. Art and creativity has been part of her life since childhood.
Growing up close to forests and lakes, she developed an early connection to nature that continues to influence her creative life today. Her experiences in life thus far, curiosity in experimenting with new things, and personal goals have shaped the way she engages in art. Engaging in art activities allows her a sense of exploration and journey, experiences that an observer can also share, when appreciating her work. Her artwork can appear peaceful, but at the same time, be filled with living energy, and leave one with the momentary impression of discovery and surprise. She aim to capture balance between calmness, exploration, softness and strength. Through her work, she invites viewers into spaces that feel both familiar and dreamlike.
Laila is working with oil, texture and mixed media, building layered surfaces that add depth and presence to each painting. Gold and gemstones are part of her process. Her evolving body of work explores themes of resilience, wonder, and discovery what is more under the layers in this world.
CV
Laila de Paulis graduated as a professional artist from Milan Art Institute in 2026.
She received her Bachelor's Degree in Crafts and Industrial Arts in Finland as an Artisan Goldsmith in 2011.
In 2024 she was commissioned to produce art work for community organizations.
Artist statement
My art is inspired by nature, animals, and my longing to explore imaginable worlds. I often paint small animals. These animals are gentle, calm, yet strong - full of curiosity and energy. They seem to me as little explorers in their worlds.
I have a passion to paint these animals because I see a reflection of myself in them: I can be observant, but also very driven when I find a new goal I want to complete, such as a long-distance hiking trip in nature.
I love working with texture and mixed media to build layered surfaces in my paintings. The texture I add can be likened to a diamond cave: beneath what we see on the ordinary surface each day, lies an unseen layer of reality, hidden and mystical, yet discoverable to those who are willing to make the effort.
Just as a diamond cave reveals layers hidden beneath the surface, I often include small crowns to symbolize moments of achievement in one's journey of life.