Among the multitudes of treasures at Diane Powers’ locally owned Bazaar del Mundo shops in Old Town is the Laurel Burch Gallerita, bringing a unique variety of designs centered around the well known artist’s passion for vibrant colors, nature and culturally universal art. This shop is dedicated to honoring Laurel’s creativity. Her whimsical pieces include coffee mugs, canvas tote bags, silk scarves, socks, woven pillows and throws, greeting cards, note cards, bookmarks and magnets.

As a young child, Laurel was diagnosed with a rare bone disease called osteopetrosis. Frequently hospitalized, she began sharing her talents by telling stories and making small gifts for the other patients. Her ability to see beauty in the world around her was inspiring to all and created vision within her artwork.

In the 1960s, Laurel began selling her work on the streets of San Francisco’s Haight-Ashbury district. Although she had never taken a single art class, Laurel’s work displays intricate details and a sense of expertise that cannot be taught!

Laurel Burch passed away in 2007, leaving behind a legacy of meaningful work connected to her global spirit, courage and commitment to her community. Her colorful spirit will forever live on through her exquisite art and designs.

One of our Bazaar del Mundo shop managers, Leslie Gregory, shared years of friendship with Laurel Burch and speaks about her, here: http://goo.gl/6AyxBm