In the world of art, inspiration can often come from the most meaningful relationships in our lives. For Dawn and Laurie Shailer, a mother-daughter duo with a shared passion for creativity, their artistic journey has been both a personal and collaborative experience. Through the Seasons Art Class Eastbourne, they have not only developed their individual skills but have also deepened their connection with one another. This dynamic partnership highlights the beauty of art as a form of expression and bonding.
Laurie Shailer: A Blossoming Illustrator
Laurie, an aspiring illustrator, joined the Seasons Art Class with a desire to enhance her foundational painting skills. Like many budding artists, she sought guidance on specific techniques such as perspective, scrubbing, and glazing. Watercolour and oil pastels quickly became her mediums of choice, and her projects—like her oil pastel avocado—stand out as personal favourite.
But beyond mastering techniques, Laurie was drawn to the class for a reason far more personal: to spend quality time with her mother, Dawn. Laurie’s participation in the Seasons Art Class Eastbourne allowed her to combine her artistic ambitions with the joy of shared creativity, an experience that has strengthened their bond. In her words, the structured curriculum has provided her with “good information about each paint medium” and encouraged her to continue improving her skills. Laurie’s artistic aspirations reach beyond the class, and she is excited to further explore her illustrative potential. 
Dawn Shailer: From Health Professional to Artistic Creator
Dawn’s artistic journey took a different path. A health professional by trade, she always had a creative spirit. Dawn’s early memories of learning embroidery from her sister laid the foundation for a lifelong love of crafting. Over the years, she’s created meaningful gifts, necklaces, and even memory boxes for loved ones, blending the old with the new in ways that celebrate life. 
However, it wasn’t until joining the Seasons Art Class Eastbourne that Dawn truly embraced the artist within. Despite not studying art in school, she quickly found her footing in a supportive, non-judgmental environment. The class provided her with a unique opportunity to focus on her art, free from the pressures of her career and caring responsibilities. “It’s a gift to yourself, just to find a way into art, gently and as a beginner,” she reflects.
Dawn has learned techniques like shading and blending, working with watercolours and acrylics, and experimenting with wetting paper to create new textures. Her favourite moments in class come from the freedom to create without the pressure of perfection—an experience that is both relaxing and empowering. A Shared Artistic Experience
For Dawn and Laurie, the Seasons Art Class has been more than just a place to learn new skills—it has been a chance to grow together. While Laurie focuses on improving her illustrative abilities, Dawn enjoys mixing materials to create unique and personal pieces of art. Whether it’s watching each other take risks with colour or sharing quiet moments of reflection, their time in class is filled with encouragement, laughter, and learning.
Both Dawn and Laurie have noticed significant personal growth and increased confidence as a result of their artistic endeavours. Dawn has received admiration for her final pieces from friends and family, while Laurie continues to refine her craft, driven by her love for illustration. Looking Ahead As they look to the future, both Dawn and Laurie have artistic aspirations that they’re excited to pursue. Dawn hopes to create more mixed-media pieces that are deeply personal, while Laurie aims to continue building her skills as an illustrator. Their journey together serves as a reminder that art is not just about the final product but also the process—and that the best art is often created with love and support.
For those considering joining the Seasons Art Class, Dawn offers a heartfelt piece of advice: “It is a gift to yourself.” The class offers not only artistic growth but also the chance to build meaningful connections, whether with fellow artists or loved ones.
You can follow Laurie’s artistic journey on Instagram at @leeillumi, and Dawn’s inspiring creations can be found on her Facebook page, Dusk to Dawn.
