BIO
Born in the US, Elise Lyon received her BFA from The Art Institute in North Hollywood, California. Based in New York, this 12 year veteran of the fashion industry applies her knowledge of textile design into her painting practices. Concentrating on abstract portraits, she uses the mulberry fiber to create curious worlds of texture on her canvases. Most recently she has shown works with The Indiana State Museum and is currently on display at Buckhead Art and Co. located in Atlanta, Georgia. You can also find her works showcased on Peacock’s TV show ‘Bel-Air’ and at Studio One in New York City for her solo exhibition 'Heirlooms'. A few notable collectors include musician T.I., actor Malik Yoba, actor Khalil Kain and Dr. Nana Mizuguchi.
ARTIST STATEMENT
My work is concentrated on the power of communal energy and the profound importance of self discovery. I reflect stories of those around me while studying our connection and its effects.
This process begins by conducting an extensive interview with my subject by posing questions that prompt them to find clarity in what their life purpose is, where they are headed and what path they will leave behind. As they continue to sit in this space I position various light sources around the room to create shadows of their figure.
You will also see a similar profile repeated within my work. Over many processes of interviewing and tracing shadows of various people around the world, I began to not only realize that our spirits all mirror one another through shadow representation but, it is also noted that when we turn to look at ourselves, our shadows begin to flatten. It creates this elongated face. It opened a door of sorts, allowing all those who wish, the ability to enter.
It is a curious idea. The flattening of the face within the shadow creates this physical illusion that self no longer exists. Instead, the collective is born.
My figures reflect the shadows of these spiritual connections within that space, while representing a shared human experience. I am motivated by the desire to bring clarity into someone’s space through their recognition of self.
THE PROCESS
I use the mulberry fiber layered into my work to create an organic nature. By either creating or deconstructing the mulberry fiber from or into paper, it transforms through a process of applied fire and water. These fibers are cleansed with water and applied to the canvas in a controlled manner creating a specific outcome that is singular to me. Most of my techniques stem from my knowledge of textile design and how the combination of fibers can create a stimulating and transformative, visual experience. I chose to work with the mulberry fiber because it is one of the oldest known sources to be used in tapestry, food and medicine-all of which I hope my work to embody.