Today we’d like to introduce you to Elizabeth Conley
Hi Elizabeth, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
A lot of people tell me that they have never seen anything like my art before. Adhering fiber on a two dimensional artwork is not an entirely new approach, but discovering my process has been quite organic in nature.
I knew that I wanted to pursue a career in an art-related field, so I earned a Bachelor of Arts in Studio Arts at San Diego State University and later a Masters in Marital and Family Therapy with Specialization in Art Therapy at Loyola Marymount University.
Part of the beauty of art therapy is the emphasis placed on the process of creating a work of art, rather than the final product. This approach allowed me to “play” with art materials in ways that I normally wouldn’t. The freedom to explore led to the creation of my first “yarn painting” (a process comparable to my current work, using yarn instead of embroidery floss) while I was in grad school in 2016.
I fell in love with the medium; the rhythmic process and detailed result that only becomes clear on close inspection. That said, my first few works were so arduous to complete that I almost stopped pursuing it. Along the way I have developed a process using materials and tools that allow me to maintain the meticulous quality of artwork while allowing me to complete them without unnecessary complication.
Over the last few years, the frequency in which I create artwork has varied. I spent some time focusing on my career as an art therapist, earning my counseling license and training in specialized techniques. I continue to work full-time as an art therapist and truly enjoy it. With my counseling career established and other important shifts in my life, I have been motivated to allocate more time to my personal artwork. This renewed focus has reinvigorated my creative spirit and I am excited to continue sharing my process and work.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
When it came to my choice to pursue a Studio Arts degree, I remember the skepticism. I believe they meant well, but some people were doubtful about the practicality of it. Their concerns weighed on me and diverted my path away from my creative passions. I chose to pursue a career in nursing for a year as an effort to find a sense of stability. Though it aligned with some of my values, it became evident to me I was not meant to be a nurse. I returned to my art program with more certainty and determination than when I began. Overcoming the hurdle of doubt was a crucial step in my journey as an artist and art therapist. It strengthened my resolve and resilience.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I create fine artwork utilizing embroidery thread as my primary medium. I enjoy observing the excited surprise that viewers often have when interacting with my artwork for the first time. People comment that they did not realize “it’s thread!” until closer inspection; it seems to captivate them.
I adhere, rather than stitch, the embroidery thread (floss) to paper creating intricate and unique pieces inspired by life, light, and the discovery of things that are more than meets the eye. Drawing on nature for inspiration, my work emphasizes light/shadow, shape, and color. The embroidery thread reflects light, highlighting the shape it takes. As the piece interacts with light from different angles, the piece is transformed. My color choices are meant to capture the contrast of light and shadow as well as explore the relationships between colors.
It is rewarding to reflect on the approach I have created; it has taken a lot of time, trial and error, and determination and it continues to grow and change. I am proud of myself for pursuing my passion for creativity and finding flexibility in what that looks like in my life right now.
What do you like and dislike about the city?
One of my favorite things about where I live in Fort Worth is it holds a liveliness while maintaining a slower-pace. Living in a historic and active neighborhood, right down the road from a cultural arts district, means there is so much to explore. There are so many talented people who live here and there is always something going on. At the same time, it doesn’t have the hustle and bustle of a big city. I have lived in a big city before and it wasn’t my jam. This atmosphere is more aligned with my extroverted-introvert personality.
A couple of things I miss most about Southern California are the mountains and ocean. Both are really powerful to me and I miss being able to experience them regularly. Those are a couple of things I wish I had here.
Each place I’ve lived has its own special allure, and I’m grateful for the diverse experiences that shape my journey.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://elizabethconleystudio.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elizabethconleystudio?igsh=MWttMnM2MjFkcndmcw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
