Meet Liz Foulks | Visual Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Liz Foulks and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Liz, why did you pursue a creative career?
From the earliest memories of my childhood, I have reveled in the act of bringing something new and of my own into existence. This love for crafting and shaping the intangible into the tangible has been a guiding force throughout my life.

Interestingly, my artistic journey took a detour initially. I set out on a path to study psychology at college, a field that had always fascinated me and seemed the most realistic in terms of career paths. Within my first year of school, I felt a gentle tug at my heart to embrace what I loved most — creating art. This coerced me into taking a quick pivot during my freshman year as I decided to pursue a Bachelor’s in Visual Arts. I knew it was a risk, because I didn’t exactly know what would come of it, but something had prompted me to just go for it.

My professional journey in graphic design, culminating in my role as Creative Director of a design team, fulfills my creative appetite in a digital realm. Yet, my personal paintings serve as an anchor, reconnecting me to the tactile moments of crafting with my hands—the very essence that ignited my passion for art. In creating custom paintings, whether of pets, people, or my own original works, I discover an enduring source of comfort and joy.

In short, I pursued an artistic and creative career because it is not just a profession—it is the embodiment of my soul’s longing to create, to touch hearts, and to manifest beauty in a world that often yearns for something new. It is through art that I find my purpose in life.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My recent focus has been a series of black and white paintings inspired by classical sculptures. Through this body of work, titled Corporeal Landscape, I explore the disorienting experience of transforming familiar human forms into otherworldly contexts. The human body, the most personal of forms, becomes a source of manipulation, leading to surprising transformations of limbs, fingers, and other bodily elements. I blend anchor points of realism with moments of abstraction, inviting viewers to question what they perceive as real and unreal. Each piece that I create explores something new that has been on my mind.

I believe that each person’s unique perspective on their chosen subject matter creates original and distinct art. Our individuality enriches the creative process, making every piece a reflection of our personal outlook. This diversity sets us apart, as no two people are alike. Even with the same reference photo, two different artists can produce vastly different interpretations. This diversity is beautiful and inspiring, especially in a saturated creative market. I like believing in the idea that each person can bring a unique flair to the world.

My professional journey as an artist has required significant effort and self-advocacy. I made the conscious decision to put myself and my artwork out into the world, even when it felt daunting or impossible. I firmly believe that all it takes is a dream and the determination to pursue it. Social media, particularly Instagram, has played a crucial role in my success. It has allowed me to connect with fellow artists and key contacts who have helped me along the way.

In the past year, I’ve had the privilege of holding two solo gallery shows and participating in seven group art exhibitions. This achievement has been the result of dedication and a willingness to step outside my comfort zone. I want my work to speak for itself, transcending words and forging connections with those who encounter it. I want it to be tactile, within reach, and unpretentious. I just want someone to feel something when they look at my work.

Throughout this journey, I’ve learned that opportunities present themselves when you put in the time. It’s essential not to take anything personally, as everyone is on their unique path, just as I am on mine. My story is a testament to the power of following one’s passion and putting in the effort to see dreams realized. Ultimately, I hope my art can inspire others to embrace their creativity and pursue their aspirations with unwavering determination.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
My company’s office headquarters is based near Venice Beach, so I have a soft spot in my heart for that area and have frequented it over the years. An ideal day would start with walking on the beach in the morning, exploring the charming canals, and enjoying a matcha & a quick bite at Intelligentsia. The vibrant atmosphere along Abbot Kinney, with its diverse shops and artwork, is always a delight. As a vegetarian, I’m especially keen on the bites at The Butcher’s Daughter and Great White.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I’d like to dedicate a heartfelt shoutout to several individuals and sources of inspiration who have played significant roles in my artistic journey:

First and foremost, my high school art teacher, Bill Kooistra, deserves immense credit for shaping my artistic perspective. Bill’s unwavering encouragement to delve deeper into the meaning behind my artwork and his insistence on pushing me to improve, particularly by emphasizing the use of contrast, were pivotal in my growth as an artist.

I must also extend my gratitude to the dedicated professors in the Visual Arts department at Fordham University, particularly David Storey and Carleen Sheehan. Their guidance and encouragement pushed me to explore unconventional avenues and think outside of the box, expanding my creative horizons.

To my friends and family, who have provided unwavering support and belief in my artistic pursuits. Particularly my husband, Kenny, who has always been my biggest cheerleader and support system. He believes in me in moments when I don’t believe in myself.

Lastly, I’d like to acknowledge Luna, my devoted feline companion, whose presence on my lap while I paint brings comfort and inspiration to my creative process. Luna, in her own way, has been a muse and a source of motivation throughout my creative career.

Website: lizfoulks.com

Instagram: @lizfoulks_art

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lizsaco

Image Credits
Gallery Photographs: Kieran Buttrick