Laura-Chanel Lespérance is a Montréal-based visual artist working with tattooing, drawing, and ceramics. Her subject matter touches on surrealism and often includes imagery with a strong sense of duality.
Influenced by psychedelic and occult ideology, Laura creates attractive anthropomorphic figures with themes of magic. Her style walks the line between beauty and the grotesque, creating concepts that are both haunting and captivating.
Whether inked, drawn, or shaped from clay, Laura’s art evokes a sense of tragic beauty, capturing the fragile balance between life’s wonders and dangers.
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Which neighbourhood are you in?
I’ve been living in NDG for the last 10 years and I love my little neighbourhood community, truly a safe haven. I’ve also been spending a lot of time in Hochelaga, where my tattoo shop and ceramics studio are located. Feels nice to have that separation between home and work. In the last few years, I’ve been travelling regularly to Halifax and exploring Nova Scotia in my Subaru. Being able to camp in my vehicle allows me the freedom to travel to other cities to tattoo and explore nature while doing it. That time in the quiet of nature is what allows for space in my mind to explore creativity. Additionally, I’m around the Hintonburg area of Ottawa, where my partner lives. I’m all over the place!
What do you do?
I’m a tattoo artist by profession working primarily by machine and sometimes handpoke. Since 2022 I have been exploring clay and sculpture as a primary medium for my artistic practice. My days are divided between running my business which includes a lot of admin and marketing (so fun), tattooing a few days a week and spending at least a day a week in the ceramics studio at L’Espace Maker. I also do educational work, trying to find ways to contribute positively to society beyond art. I love doing pop-up markets and art jams, which allow me to chat with people about my work and share it beyond the digital world.
What are you currently working on?
I am currently working on a series of life-size busts based on creatures I have drawn repeatedly. I am bringing them into the 3D world, giving them new dimensions through sculpture. It’s been so nice learning about human anatomy and twisting it into something otherworldly. So far I have completed 2 of these humanoid babes, and I am now working on my third. The goal is to have an art show at some point to share this work. I have some pottery on the go as well! I’m also saving up to buy a camper van (RIP to the Subaru) so that I can resume my exploration of Canadian cities, to tattoo and appreciate our beautiful landscape. I’m currently transitioning into a new tattoo studio, from Grey Market which has been my home for the last 4 years and trying something new at Plurielles.
Where can we find your work?
My tattoos and flash, as well as my sculptures and other artwork, can be found on my website! My tattoo portfolio, flash and booking info can also be viewed on my Instagram. Thanks for looking!
