Artist, Teacher & Live Painter

Laurie Mango is a full-time artist based in Thames, New Zealand, whose work celebrates the beauty of people and the moments that connect them. With hundreds of portraits and life drawings behind her, she has spent years sketching and painting from life — in bustling markets, quiet cafés, at music gigs, and under the open sky. Her portfolio spans private commissions, original artworks, and fine art prints, and her pieces are regularly exhibited at Vessel Gallery..

As the owner of The Creativity Room, Laurie has guided dozens of students in developing their own creative confidence. She believes drawing and painting are not just skills, but ways of seeing — of noticing the small details, gestures, and emotions that make a subject truly come alive.

When painting live at events, Laurie captures more than a likeness — she preserves a feeling, a sense of place, and the unique energy of the day. Whether it’s a wedding framed by the Coromandel coast, a commissioned portrait for a loved one, or an artwork for exhibition, her pieces offer both technical skill and a touch of poetry.