Lawson Smith Art shares a young man’s inspiring journey from the devastating effects of a traumatic brain injury to a place of improved well-being and creativity. 

Initially designed to cultivate a sense of purpose for Lawson Smith after the loss of his independence, LSA is also a source of hope for others facing similar challenges. 

Lawson lives with cognitive impairment, right-side paralysis, and is non-verbal after a skateboarding accident in 2012 - a poignant reminder to wear a helmet. 

The process of art making became essential to Lawson's rehabilitation at home, enhancing his quality of life and facilitating his physical and cognitive recovery.

Lawson held a pen with a therapist supporting his arm, and tried to write his name in November 2013. Within a year, he was able to paint simple shapes without therapy assistance, initiating the Spirit Bird collection. It was completed in November 2014 when Lawson painted Full Circle (Circle of Love) in the company of dear friends celebrating his 22nd birthday. 

By 2018, Lawson was supported by an art mentor who introduced the sea sponge method of layering paint. His unique ocean-like paintings became a catalyst for the Marine Stories collection, and the idea behind upholding Lawson's marine conservation goals through his art practice.

After trying to achieve a website without success, a close friend of Lawson's saved the day in 2019. Together with her sister, they created the original Lawson Smith Art website that officially launched in May 2020, generating extraordinary growth and creativity until pausing for a break 12 months later (see Gratitude).

Lawson continued his creative journey into 2021 and beyond with a local artist, exploring new mediums and techniques to develop his artistic skills and learning potential. The Nature Boy collection marks a playful time of painting to music with an upbeat rhythm, inspiring movement and a joyful mood.

Fast forward to 2024 with four collections to his name and a large body of work in the wings, as Lawson Smith Art reopens its virtual doors after a long hiatus, with the aptly named series, Resurface.  

Browse the collections for a glimpse into Lawson’s world where recovery from brain injury meets art, and environmental advocacy finds another voice.

Happiest by the sea and passionate about conservation, Lawson still has something to say!