Tao LaBossiere Illustrated Punny Word Play – Selected Works offers a joyful glimpse into the playful imagination of award-winning fine artist Tao LaBossiere. Known for his murals, sculptures, illustrations, and public art, Tao approached creativity with both humor and heart. Among his most personal and lighthearted works is a series of pun-based pen-and-ink drawings—clever visual interpretations of familiar phrases, brought to life with warmth, wit, and Tao’s distinctive artistic style. What began as a personal creative challenge evolved into a body of work that Tao planned to share through a series of illustrated books. He paired some of the drawings with short poems, offering clues into each visual pun. This first collection presents a carefully chosen selection from that larger series, exactly as Tao left them.
Lovingly prepared and published by Tao’s wife, fellow artist, and creative partner, Amy LaBossière, this edition honors Tao’s unique voice and vision. A portion of the proceeds from every book sold supports the Tao LaBossiere Artist Fund at the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving, established in his memory to help support other artists.
This collection is a joyful keepsake for art lovers, pun enthusiasts, and anyone who appreciates clever wordplay, creative vision, and the enduring power of art to bring a smile.
Carrying Forward Creativity, Community, and Legacy
Tao LaBossiere (1968–2024) was a public artist, muralist, sculptor, illustrator, and mixed media artist whose work celebrated nature, peace, and community. His work transformed spaces and inspired connection throughout Connecticut and beyond.
Art of Tao LaBossiere now continues under the leadership of Amy LaBossiére, Principal, Creative Strategist, Artist, and Writer. Amy worked alongside her beloved husband Tao for nearly two decades, supporting, managing, and collaborating on many of the projects that shaped their shared creative journey. Read more about Amy here.
Today, the company preserves Tao’s artistic legacy while preparing to offer selected original works and prints later in 2025. Visitors are invited to explore Tao’s art, support emerging artists through the Tao LaBossiere Artist Fund, and work with Amy on art commissions, creative consulting/marketing, writing, and restoration/maintenance of their previous murals and sculptures.
Amy also continues her longtime volunteer service directing Hartford ArtSpace Gallery, fostering opportunities for local artists and strengthening community connection through the arts.
Please check back later in 2025 for event announcements, new offerings of TAO prints and original works as Art of Tao LaBossiere evolves into its next chapter. Signup for email updates here.
This short tribute video offers a glimpse into Tao LaBossiere’s creative journey, featuring murals, sculpture, and public art projects created with the steadfast support, collaboration, and management of Amy LaBossiére.
While the video captures some of the major highlights of Tao’s career, it reflects only part of his expansive body of work, which also included illustration, mixed media, and painting.
Today, Amy LaBossiére, Principal of Art of Tao LaBossiere, continues their shared commitment to creativity, community, and artistic legacy.
Did you know Tao? Many of us carry stories of how Tao touched our lives, and we'd love to hear yours. Your contribution may be considered for a future collection of stories or published work celebrating Tao's life and legacy. Add your Tao story here.