Elizabeth Tristram
Elizabeth Tristram is a Pretoria-based artist with a BFA from Rhodes University (2008) and a master's degree in Art History (2010). During her BFA, she specialized in painting, primarily working with oils. After a brief career in instructional and graphic design, Elizabeth made the transition to full-time artist in 2016.
Tristram explores various mediums, including watercolour, oil paint, linocut, and monotype printing. Her artistic practice is process-based, delving into the creative boundaries and techniques of both printmaking and painting. Her work consistently explores themes of nostalgia and memory.
Elizabeth's recent body of work draws inspiration from Trompe-l'œil and pop art, expressing the beauty and memories inherent in everyday objects. This series originated in 2020 during a time of lockdown when she sought solace in appreciating the often-overlooked allure of commonplace items. The paintings within this series serve as studies of light and colour, illuminating the aesthetic of the ordinary. As her work evolved, it transcended mere visual representation. Elizabeth's paintings began to evoke profound memories and emotions in viewers. People shared personal stories and connections they felt with her art, highlighting its ability to touch upon universal memory and collective experiences.
In 2021, Elizabeth started creating narrative-driven artworks with LEGO as the central theme. This juxtaposition of a widely recognized childhood toy with deeper, often darker themes, creates a captivating interplay between innocence and complexity and taps into the critical importance of making meaning through story.
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