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If a mural could make you want to spend more time in the bathroom, this one would. Painted with
loving care (and more than a splash of whimsy), local Ravenswood artist Liesl Lavery has completely
transformed the pre-K bathroom into a charming garden get-away.
The prairie-style garden has long been a part of Waters Elementary emphasis on ecology. And, not
surprisingly, where Liesl found her inspiration: "Since I knew the painting was geared toward young
kids, and the pre-K program has a bilingual component, I wanted to incorporate some animals kids might
find in a garden…a bird, frog, rabbit and butterfly, along with the Spanish names for them," Liesl
explains.
The mural, which took between 35 to 40 hours to complete, was a generous donation by Lavery. Ace
supplied the paints, free of charge as well.
Impressed with the level of commitment from the Waters Today parents’ group, Liesl commented how
easy they made it for her to get things done.
"They're really a great group…very organized…once I shared the sketch with Terri Versace, I was off
painting."
When Liesl isn't busy doing custom murals, she works as a consultant in educational technology.
Since moving back to Chicago from Washington D.C. only recently, she would like to build up more of
a clientele—which shouldn't be a problem since her work is so charming.
Just as important as the end result is her approach: Liesl takes time getting to know her client's
family. She explores what interests or hobbies the child may have; what colors they like; what
family trips they may have taken. Then the fun begins--creating a painting or mural that is as
unique as that child.
In addition to murals, Lavery also does hand-painted appliances and furniture, acrylic and oils on
canvas, and clothing. An impressive array of small paintings on canvas is also available. (Beware:
they make great gifts, but you'll want them for your own kids, too.)
To see more of her collection, visit
www.liesllavery.com.
To set up a home consultation, e-mail her at
Liesl@LieslLavery.com or phone
773.972.2627..
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