Lauren Black has practiced law in Los Angeles for 25 years. Despite a lifelong commitment to the belief that she had no artistic talent whatsoever, Lauren decided to embrace the awkward and attend Marieke’s art class at her Laurel Canyon studio. To her surprise, Lauren left the class feeling significantly more grounded and peaceful. After returning to the class several times, Lauren felt drawn to bring this experience to others. 

Lauren earned her BA from UC Berkeley and her JD from UC College of the Law, San Francisco (formerly called UC Hastings College of the Law) a very long time ago. 

Marieke Boorman is an artist and teacher. Marieke has long dreamed of creating non-judgmental spaces to facilitate workshops highlighting the importance of creativity in our lives. She received formal training through The Institute for Women Centered Coaching, Training & Leadership, completing the Professional Program in Facilitation in 2020 and the Coaching Program in 2021. Marieke has experienced the joy and satisfaction of bringing people together in community. When we work together rather than in competition we generate limitless possibilities. 

More than a decade ago, Marieke founded an after-school and summer art enrichment program for children which led to creative programs for teens and adults. Together, Lauren and Marieke founded ArtAtWorkLA in 2022.

Marieke holds a BA in Fine Art from the University of Toronto, with additional coursework in Early Childhood Education and Psychology.

More about Marieke at AllowingArt.org