Laureen “Reen” Axtell grew up with a love of the Rocky Mountains and the unique landmarks of the Denver/Boulder area where she was raised. These special places are the subjects of much of her art. Her work also reflects a deep connection to the High Plains of Eastern Colorado, where her family’s third-generation farm is located.Reen studied art and graphic design at Colorado State University and worked as a Graphic Designer, Art Director and Creative Director for 35+ years. Working in graphic design fine-tuned her ability to solve creative problems, study color relationships, and frame images in an unexpected way. In 2018, Reen left corporate design and advertising to devote herself to fine art.