Laura Põld

Laura Põld is a renowned artist who works in interdisciplinary crafts and sculpture-based practice.

Biography of Laura Põld

Laura Põld was born in 1984 in Tallinn, Estonia. Her educational journey began at the Estonian Academy of Arts, where she pursued a Bachelor's degree in the Department of Ceramics. During her time at the academy, she honed her skills in ceramics, gaining a deep understanding of the medium's techniques and its potential for artistic exploration. 

She also received a Master's degree from the Department of Painting at the University of Tartu. From 2018 to 2021, Laura Põld pursued her studies at the Department of Sculptural Conceptions / Ceramics at the University of Art and Design Linz.

Laura Põld's art style

Laura Põld's work is centered around a deliberate selection of materials and a deep exploration of their historical and political contexts. She channels her artistic expression through mediums such as ceramics and tufting, employing traditional crafts and building techniques, which interest her as preservation of stories, memory and skills.

With a keen eye for detail and a strong appreciation for the significance of materials, Laura Põld carefully chooses the elements that comprise her artwork. By incorporating these materials into her creations, Laura Põld seeks to honor and communicate the rich histories they embody.

During the 2010s, Laura Põld embarked on artistic endeavors characterized by semi-abstract paintings and assemblages of recycled furniture. She often describes her work in a poetic way, while also addressing social and environmental issues that trouble the world.

Artistic Achievements and Recognition

Laura Põld has received numerous prestigious accolades and scholarships in recognition of her artistic achievements. Her notable honors include the annual prize of The Cultural Endowment of Estonia in 2014, which acknowledged her exceptional contributions to the arts. In 2016, she was awarded the esteemed Köler Prize Grand Prix, a testament to her remarkable talent and innovation.

Continuing her streak of success, Laura received the grand prize of The Cultural Endowment of Estonia in 2018, further solidifying her position as a leading figure in the artistic community. Her artistic prowess and dedication to her craft were recognized with the ISCP New York studio grant in 2019. Most recently, in 2021, Laura was honored with the Claus Michaletz Preis.