Cornered.
A Portrait Series by Seattle Photographer Lara Grauer
We live in a time when people are separated, hidden, belittled, and pitted against each other. In this “connected” world, we see more and more disconnection.
We watch people we care about get lumped into pre-defined groups based on an uttered phrase or a posted comment – without any regard for nuances or chance to explore underlying intentions. When we get categorized like that, we withdraw in order to avoid further misjudgment – and ultimately we grow further apart.
Our communities are fractured, and the damage is easy to see.
This has gone on long enough. Let’s make a change and step out from behind our screens. We must connect authentically with each other, open our hearts, and seek to understand our fellow humans.
The Cornered Project explores real people and the stories that emerge when they show up in the world. “Getting Cornered” brings a sense of humor to the experience of being photographed, while showing the rest of us that there is goodness in people everywhere.
We don’t have to avert our gaze when we walk by someone on the sidewalk. We can smile and say “hello,” knowing they have something endearing about them, whether we can see it on the surface or not.
Through this project, Lara Grauer invites you to step into a quiet and powerful space where something deeply human can unfold. Check out the portraits. Resonate with the stories. Ask yourself: Can you find the courage to share your true story with your community? When the answer becomes yes, we would love to “Corner” you, too. Just fill out the form at the bottom of this page and we’ll make it happen.
Art is a creative goofball. Known for his one-liners, and his unique perspective on everyday experiences, he is a loving, kind, gentle, stubborn, and passionate guy. Art broadcasts five days a week on Twitch and YouTube, leading people through crazy battles and silly antics. If you’re curious, you can find him listed as Kaiservongrauer. He studied broadcasting and radio in college, and to this day it remains his biggest passion. Art is also my husband, my studio manager, and my closest friend. We met way back in high school – and after all this time, his take on life still manages to surprise and delight me.
Accepting, authentic, and fun-loving. That’s Liz. When she saw I was doing this project, she thought, “Why not?” Liz knows life is short, and you might as well have some fun while you’re here. Liz is a school principal in the Seattle School District. She’s married to a teacher, and her wicked-smart son graduated from high school with both his high school diploma and his associated degree from North Seattle College. Liz surrounds herself with people who embrace intelligence and creativity, and she doesn’t hold back – the last time I ran into her, she was dressed for a “Roper Romp” where everyone dresses up as Mrs. Roper from 3’s Company, curly red wig and all. Fun follows Liz wherever she goes!
Nathan Daum is Shoreline’s Economic Development Manager. I’ve had the pleasure of working with Nate for many years because he is the link between the City and the Shoreline Chamber of Commerce. He is a truly lucky individual, having secured his dream job in Shoreline! Nate loved his job so much that he commuted from Bainbridge Island every day for a bunch of years. Now, Nate is a happy resident of Shoreline, living in town with his wife and two kids. He’s living proof that dreams do come true! If you have a dream that involves flourishing in Shoreline, I’m sure Nate will do whatever he can to help you make it happen.
Shoreline's Mayor Chris Roberts and I first met many years ago when we were both parent volunteers at Cascade K-8 Community School . Chris has been part of the Shoreline City Council since before I met him. He served as Mayor back around the time we met, and he served the Mayor of Shoreline again in 2025. Chris is a smart and thoughtful guy. He is all-in when it comes to helping Shoreline navigate the changing landscape that defines Seattle right now. He is pragmatic in his thinking, and aims to support local businesses, while building vibrant neighborhoods throughout the city. Chris shows up when he’s needed. He participates in events around the community. And he likes our dog, Odin! I’d say that means Chris Roberts is a stand-up guy.
I first heard of Silje about a year ago, when she was announced as the recipient of Shoreline’s Community Champion award. I was intrigued when I heard about her dedication to Shoreline and Lake Forest Park, and I wondered why I didn’t know her yet! A few months ago, she joined a networking group that I’m in, and now we see each other all the time! Since we met, I’ve learned that Silje has a great big heart and a passion for bringing people together. Silje dedicates herself fully to anything she’s involved with. Silje recently took a position as the Executive Director of the Friends of Third Place Commons. After many years of involvement on the board of directors for the organization, she was the perfect fit for the job. Silje is the person who schedules hundreds of events in Third Place Commons, and manages the Sunday Farmer’s Market.
Oh look – it’s me, Lara! I love to spend time with my family, read books, cuddle with my dog, and I love to dance. In my life, I’ve noticed that I tend to forget things if there aren’t photos to remind me. It’s amazing how some of our experiences are big and sticky, but others are fleeting and too easy to forget. Even important things fade sometimes. This is one big reason why I’m a portrait photographer. I want to protect our heritage and preserve our memories for future generations.
Betsy is an awesome human being. She has a big heart, and a wonderful sense of humor! Betsy works for the Red Cross, helping countless people around the world in her everyday work. She also is an amazing member of the Shoreline City Council. Betsy has taken on leadership roles by advocating for a holiday light display in the center of town, and by partnering with the Shoreline Chamber of Commerce to get our community ready for the 2026 MLS World Cup soccer matches that will be held in Seattle! Betsy chose her shirt in honor of her brother, who (as a teenager) wanted to make “moist” a cool phrase like “rad” or “awesome.” He and a couple of friends tried to make it catch on, but… it never really got momentum. Let’s help Betsy keep the dream alive! If you see her, tell her you think her outfit is moist! Maybe she’ll tell you where you can get a shirt like hers.
Mike is a neighborhood hero. He goes out every day to clean up litter from the streets because, as he says, “Litter multiplies!” He’s seen a drastic decrease in the amount of garbage since he committed to this work years ago. Mike also has a sweet Australian Shepherd dog named Zoe, who he takes for strolls multiple times a day. Zoe was a strong “barker” when he first got her, so Mike hired a trainer to help quiet her down. She’s not a silent dog, but his efforts really made a difference. When we had Mike pose in the corner, we learned that he is a long-time photographer. He uses a Nikon D90 and a homemade monopod because “they do the trick!” He loves to use the sun as his light source, and he enjoys photographing nature. If you see Mike walking in the neighborhood, make sure you say hello!
Nolan is an energetic kid with his eyes on the prize. Nolan is bold and a little bit feisty. He’s also a team player, who looks for ways to contribute and make things work. Nolan has a lust for life, and makes his heart’s desires known! The determination he embodies is remarkable. He’s an example for all of us to go for the things we want. If at first you don’t succeed, try, try again!
Elliott is full of life, and passion for fun! One of his big dreams is to buy an RV and go traveling. He’s actively working toward this goal by asking everyone he knows for money. What a forward-thinking guy! When he’s not at school, Elliott enjoys playing in his back yard and learning about as many different Pokemon as he can. He’s very proud to have graduated from kindergarten and he’s excited to start first grade soon! Elliott’s resilience is an inspiration to me. When times are challenging, he pushes through and comes out ahead. There’s so much kids can teach us – Elliott is no exception.
Meet Lauren. Cat-lover, puzzle-doer, and community-connector. I first met Lauren when we both served on the Board of Directors for the Shoreline Chamber of Commerce. We share a lot of enthusiasm for helping people be successful. Lauren is currently a dedicated member of the City of Shoreline’s Planning Commission. She is an awesome volunteer with a big heart.
Alyssa is a super woman! She perseveres, she takes risks, and she has fun while she does it. Alyssa posts fun videos on Instagram, often dancing with her husband and playing with her kitties! Go find her @vittatebeauty and follow. It was really fun to have her in the studio for a session in the corner.
Meet Maia! Oh, and of course, meet her family too: Joey, Miles, Elliott, and Maxine. Maia is the branch manager of the BECU on Ballinger Way in Shoreline, Washington. She is lovely and vibrant, and full of fantastic ideas. Her sense of humor delights me. When I asked how being a parent has changed her life, she said: “I have never loved so hard in my life. I have never been so internally motivated to improve myself so I can model and support a healthy approach to mental health and self love. Every day there is something that makes me look in the mirror, whether that feels positive or negative, and have a deeper understanding of who I am, who I want to be, and what I want to provide for my children. I have a whole new level of resolve to bring something great to this world.”
Laura grew up in Rochester, NY near the shores of Lake Ontario and within walking distance of the home of Eastman Kodak’s founder, George Eastman, which is now a world-renowned photography museum! She calls herself a late bloomer because, “I learned to garden and cook in my forties when I went from vegetarian to vegan. I am proud to stand by my values of animal rights, environmental stewardship, and caring about farm and food workers. I also feel more connected to food and land since starting this journey.” Becoming vegan was a very personal decision, and it’s one accomplishment Laura is very proud of.
Megan grew up in the Aikahi neighborhood in Kailua on the island of Oahu, HI. She remembers having adventures hiking the Kalaheo hillside to the empty water tower and abandoned WWII artillery bunkers, loitering at the shopping center, riding bikes, and skating the irrigation gutters at the elementary school. She was an intentional rebel outsider as a haole* but always had deep respect for the Hawaiian culture. After living in Seattle for over 20 years, Megan says, “Home… is where your resources are and where you draw your strength from. Initially I want to say that Hawaii is home… The truth is that I carry Hawaii with me but I’m grounded in Seattle. Being part of the outrigger canoe paddling community allows me to bring these two identities together.” *Haole is a Hawaiian term for a person who is not native to Hawaii; especially a white person.
Laura is a local art instructor in Shoreline. She is a loved and respected member of the community who contributes through volunteering, participating in her local Rotary club, and just being a good person. Laura is a mom of two: one son is currently in his 30s, and the other passed away. A memory she shared: “After my second son was born, we took a walk on the beach as a family. My oldest was about 2.5 years old and was walking very slowly on the beach… I kept reminding him to keep up/hurry up or something like that. At one point, I must have said,’ I’m losing my patience’ I look back a few minutes later and there he is – not walking with us, but behind looking at something. So I ask, ‘What are you looking at?’ His reply is, ‘I’m looking for your patience.’ … Priceless!”
“I grew up mostly in the Midwest, first in mobile home parks in rural Missouri, playing in the woods with my little sister, wading in creeks, attending Vacation Bible School and taking dance lessons. In middle school my family moved to Wichita, Kansas, and suddenly I lived in a bungalow in the middle of a city and was exposed to so many different kinds of people. Wichita has a thriving arts scene, so my opportunities with ballet expanded, and I participated in photography, drawing and painting classes, sculpture, creative writing. My world got a lot bigger and with it, my perspectives and understanding of my place in the world. Wichita, Kansas is what I consider my hometown, even though I only lived there 9 years. It was a very formative 9 years. Seattle, however, is Home. It’s where I became an adult, met my spouse, raised a family, found my career, bought a house, found my calling.” – Liz C
Hana was kicking it as a sweet little girl, minding her own business, when she was diagnosed with brain cancer and everything changed. Hana has become a warrior – surviving multiple surgeries, enduring test after test, and treatment after treatment. Meanwhile, she has stayed focused on being a kid and doing well in school. In 2025 she graduated from high school, while completing several college courses at the same time. Hana is a lovely young lady with a fantastic sense of humor, who lives with strength and enthusiasm.
Karli is mom to two “big” kids, and an inspiration to all of us. She has been through many challenges, including health issues, a divorce, and her daughter’s long fight with brain tumors. But she maintains a sense of joy and wonder. When asked, “What do you hope you’ll be remembered for?” she says, I hope I will be remembered for making a difference in other people’s lives. Sometimes we think we might not be making much of an impact, especially when we’re busy raising kids. But every act of compassion and effort to love and serve others matters. We might be in the right time and place to make more of an impact than we realize at the time.
Jose got Cornered on his birthday, excited to be part of the project. He wore his work clothes because this is how he spends most of his days. Jose has a strong work ethic and a sense of optimism and faith. A major value for Jose is “to always work hard no matter what I do. Whether it’s at work on the 777X airplanes that I work on, or at home cleaning and doing yard work… I pull up my sleeves and work.” He loves nature. He is disciplined. He emphasizes good communication and treating each other well. Jose likes to go to Woods Coffee in Everett by Marine View Drive. It’s across from the Everett waterfront. Jose says, “I enjoy the windows and cozy fireplace they have. It’s a good place to go and drink coffee or meet up with friends.”
Shyra and Samantha are a sweet mother and daughter who share a deep connection. Lovers of the theatre, they recently had an opportunity to see some shows on Broadway in New York. They enjoy hanging out at The Muddy Cup in Seattle, and checking out the local beaches at low tide. I love this image for its emotion. The closeness between family members evokes a sense of security. We are humans, designed to connect. We all benefit when we support, protect, and comfort each other. Loved ones are a gift: there for you when you’re backed into a corner.
Cari is a spunky girl! She is full of enthusiasm and loves to perform for the camera. When her mom heard about our corner project, she knew right away that Cari would want in! I love her frilly dress and her expressive eyes. They bring a unique energy to the confined space. Cari is unstoppable. You go, girl!
Kibebew. He is an amazing young man: patient, confident, and kind. Life has been a challenge for Kibebew. He was born in Africa, and adopted here in Washington at a very young age. His family here in the U.S. is loving and strong, and they’ve conquered some incredible challenges. Recently, Kibebew had a chance to reconnect with his birth family in Africa. They have appreciated the opportunity to know each other after such a long time. Through it all, Kibebew retains his positivity. He stays supportive of the people around him, and understands the importance of enjoying every moment. Kibebew is an inspiration.
From the Artist
The feeling of trepidation when being photographed reminds us of times we’ve been judged unfairly, whether by others or by ourselves.
When you embrace the experience and allow yourself to shine, something profound can happen. First, you might meet yourself more honestly, and grow as a result. But perhaps more importantly, your act of courage in that moment might serve as an example and inspiration for others to approach the world with more authenticity.
“Cornered” began simply as a playful way to make use of a quirky spot in our studio. But it quickly became something more. It’s a testament to the resilience that surfaces when we allow ourselves to pause, feel, and reflect. Sharing these moments publicly spurs more vulnerability and compassion between humans. It is so fun to watch our peers reveal and celebrate little parts of themselves. This is what we’re made for!
My goal with this project is to show that no matter what we may see with a first encounter, each individual has a beautiful story unfolding - one of growth, strength, and becoming. Your life is a work of art, and the art of photography can turn it into a masterpiece, to be savored for many generations.
Get Cornered.
Fill out this form to participate in the project.