Lori Starnes captures essence of her subjects

Lori Starnes has a stack of photographs that she goes through when contemplating starting a new piece.

Starnes is inspired by stories, and when she finds a picture that moves her, she gets out her materials: paper, charcoal, oil and acrylic paints.

The artist specializes in portraits, detailed drawings depicting the essence of the person she is re-creating on a flat surface. Starnes does not want to simply copy the photograph she is working from, she aspires to let her creativity take over and make the work of art something more.

This month, Starnes has been celebrating her solo exhibit at the North Charleston City Gallery where she is the artist-in-residence. Her show, "Personal Possessions: Portraits of Me, My Family and My Dog," displays a series of work that Starnes has long kept hidden.

"There are several pieces that I'd completed years ago, but never displayed for different reasons. When I had to start compiling pieces for this show, I decided that since some of these hidden pieces were some of my favorites, I set aside my judgments on what would or wouldn't be considered 'good art' and framed them for the show. I'm really happy I did."

Starnes work will be on display through the end of January. The exhibit is available for viewing from 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

My Mantra: Keep moving forward!

Upcoming travel plans: I'm looking forward to a trip to New Mexico this summer with my husband.

Last thing I do before I go to bed: Watch way too much television!

Favorite movie: "Shrek 2" (Pretty embarrassing).

I am currently listening to: Evolver by John Legend.

Last book that I read: One that I've read many times is "The Seven Spiritual Laws of Success" by Deepak Chopra.

Favorite restaurant in Charleston: I haven't been to too many, but I really like Osaka on Folly Road.

My daily routine consists of: Walking my dog first thing, then having breakfast and deciding what creative project I'll work on -- whether it's preparing a new lesson for my after-school art classes, continuing work on or starting a new painting.

Habit I'd like to break: Being overly judgmental of myself or anyone else.

I am most grateful for: The loving husband and my sweet doggie.

In five years, I will be: Too old not to have taken chances when the opportunities presented themselves.

If I knew then what I know now: I would have hung in there longer.

Price range of artwork: $200-$5,000. Depends upon whether it's my own original piece or a commissioned piece.

Would you rather win the lottery or fly into space?: Probably win the lottery; I'd be too chicken to fly into space.