Selected Work
A Poet's Eye
+ A Little Graphite
A simple formula for honoring the everyday magic of those you love most.
Every face holds a story and a rich internal world. Every portrait I draw is an act of witness.
About Me
I'm Laila, an Austin native and lifelong fine artist — from musicianship, to visual arts, to dance. It is a privilege to capture the living art that is each one of us — fur fam included!
My approach is built on curiosity, a little awe, and a studious gaze. With a background spanning performance, event production, and graphic arts, I bring a presence to both my studio work and live event installations. With a deep appreciation for atmosphere, storytelling, and human connection, my goal is always the same: to help others feel seen, valued, and beautifully reflected.
The Commissions Process
Submit Your Request
Fill out the portrait request form — or reach out first if you have questions. There's no wrong place to start.
Share Your Vision
Read through the submission instructions so we both understand the process and expectations. Then send me your photos and any inspirations you have.
Trust the Process
The more you communicate, the closer I get to achieving your vision. But if you'd rather just hand me a photo and set me free — what artist doesn't love that?
An Example
I convert your reference image to black and white to begin reading the light.
I play with the values to establish mood — deepening shadows, lifting light, creating atmosphere.
The finished graphite portrait, ready to frame or gift.
Tiers
Accessibility is important to me, because art is for everyone. I've organized my custom offerings into reasonable price tiers.
- One subject (person or pet)
- Graphite on thick card stock
- Progress shots upon request
- Up to 2 subjects
- Detailed graphite on paper
- Progress shots upon request
- 2+ subjects or complex scene
- Mixed media on paper
- Progress shots upon request
If these tiers don't meet your vision — reach out and we'll find what works for you.
Hear From My Clients :)
Capturing what you love about your people is a privilege. It requires sensitivity and a deep respect for your story. It's rewarding to know when I've honored that trust.
I was very excited to see the possibility of Laila’s work, but once I received it and opened it - I was absolutely speechless. The lifelike detail, the care, and skills shown were absolutely incredible. The true moment was unveiled when my wife opened it as a Christmas present - seeing the breathtaking gift instantly brought tears to everyone in the room. I wholeheartedly recommend Laila for her skills she provides to the craft.
I first commissioned a portrait of my daughter for my office. I loved it so much I ordered another as a gift for a friend. Then a year later, I commissioned a portrait of my daughter and I together, to hang in our living room. I'm a graphic designer and I have so much admiration for handmade art and Laila's unique skill. These are snapshots in time and heirloom pieces for my family.
Christmas 2025 I opened a present and my heart stopped. The drawing made by Laila was of my granddaughter but was so much more than a drawing: It captured her soul, her essence, and her total being. She jumped off the page right into my heart and there isn't a day that I don't stop by the wall where her picture is now displayed and can't help myself but smile.
I've purchased pet memorial art from Laila multiple times because she genuinely cares about capturing the essence of existence. Her artistic style is authentic, yet brings to life something unique that can't even be captured by photo. Thank you for bringing to life in art the sweet dogs Callie and Lulu.
Is there a place for tissues?
I cannot thank you enough for the absolutely breathtaking portrait of my dog; it is so much more than just a piece of art to me. You didn't just replicate their likeness, you somehow managed to capture their entire soul, their gentle spirit, and the exact warmth in their eyes that fills my heart every single day. Looking at it genuinely moves me to tears because it feels like a living, breathing tribute to a bond that means the world to me. Your incredible talent has given my family a priceless treasure that we will cherish forever, and I am profoundly grateful for the love and care you clearly poured into every single stroke.
If our work together moved you, I'd be so grateful to include your thoughts above!
Available for Event Work
- LIVE EVENTS AND ACTIVATIONS
- COLLABORATIVE INSTALLATIONS
- MARKET BOOTHS
Bring live portraiture to your next event — weddings, corporate gatherings, markets, and private installations. Let's talk about what you need.
I NEED AN ARTIST