Meet the Artist

Laura James is a self-taught painter and illustrator whose work transcends boundaries between the sacred and the everyday. Born in Brooklyn and of Antiguan heritage, Laura has spent over three decades developing a visual language that unites vibrant storytelling with themes deeply rooted in identity, culture, and spirituality. Her art, celebrated for its fusion of Ethiopian Christian iconography with scenes from the Bible and contemporary life, invites viewers to engage with both the familiar and the divine, fostering a space for introspection and connection.

In her religious work, Laura often explores themes of inclusivity and universal humanity. One of her best known contributions is her collection of illustrations in The Book of the Gospels, which has been used worldwide by various Christian communities since its 2001 publication by Liturgy Training Publications. In this book, now in its 2nd printing, Laura reimagines traditional Christian iconography, infusing it with diverse representations that resonate with people across cultures. Inspired by the richly symbolic, narrative tradition of Ethiopian Christian art, her interpretations invite new, contemporary perspectives. 

In her “Mary Magdalene and the Risen Jesus—Stations of the Resurrection According to John” (2021, 2024) and her new, “Traveling Ministries of Mary Magdalene According to Luke” (2025), Laura brings us Gospel events centered on the women disciples. These disciples and their stories are critical to our full understanding of Salvation History, but they are not well known as they are rarely included in our Sunday readings, preaching, Children’s Bibles, hymns, movies, storytelling, etc. The radical nature of Jesus’s inclusive ministry is made clear in these new paintings; they challenge us to follow his example. 

In all her work, Laura’s philosophy revolves around accessibility and inclusivity. She believes in the power of art to create spaces where people feel seen and understood, regardless of their background. This commitment extends beyond her paintings; Laura is an active advocate for artists and her community. As the founder of BX200: Bronx Visual Artists Directory, she has established an online platform dedicated to showcasing Bronx-based artists, fostering visibility and support for local talent. Her commitment to community-building continues through her work on her local community board and garden. In all her endeavors, she believes that art should serve as a bridge, connecting individuals and uplifting underrepresented voices.