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(February
3, 2003. Written by Kenneth A Maffeo)
Elizabeth began her creative journey of self
expression by studying the natural beauty
of her surroundings. She knew early on that
there was something very magical in the patterns
and negative space of Nature itself. By looking
at the pictures in National Geographic and
the Audubon Society she was able to cultivate
an appreciation and eye for this unique expression.
Most of her artistic attempts in the beginning
were self taught. It wasn't until Junior College
that she took her first formal art class.
This Airbrush technique class gave her a new
and powerful voice to carry out more of her
ideas. She experimented with many other mediums
but the combination of airbrush, watercolor,
gouache, and colored pencil seemed to become
her voice. Elizabeth knew that nature was
to be one of her major subjects, but there
was something else for her to discover. It
wasn't until her late 20's that she found
a cultural connection with her Japanese ancestry.
At
this point Elizabeth found a vehicle for new
growth and expression. The series Beauty Of
The Bonsai was born. This work represented
the solemn dignity of the bonsai. These four
paintings capture the spirit and discipline
that dwells within these beautiful trees.
One
year later, Elizabeth found a way to integrate
the Japanese grace of textiles with the western
focus of realism. The Kimono Seasons series
did just that. These five paintings contain
a symbolic theme. Each one of these paintings
contains a Mon or family crest. They also
represent the five seasons of Japan.
When
you take the time to appreciate the detail
of this work you will see that Elizabeth has
a special photographic eye and spritual sence
of wonder. We look forward to her future work
and interpretation.
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