Artist’s Name: Lisa Holzl

Artist’s Age: 55

Artist’s Brand: 1 DROP 2 WELLNESS

Artform: Acrylic & Mixed Media

Why do you do what you do?

As an artist, I wanted to share how I overcame depression by starting an art journal. I’ve been suffering from Lupus for ten years and I needed to shift my focus away from myself. I began learning the different types of art mediums available to me.

In 2018, I began creating abstract acrylic art on wrapped canvas. I painted my first autobiography piece using paper and acrylic. I wanted to show others that ART CAN HEAL THE SOUL.

Working at my studio, I got to meet wonderful people over the last few years. I like to create using my emotions and putting them onto the canvas. I listen to worship music through my headphones as I let go during the painting process. I allow myself to connect with the music and the paint.

I can have a plan but, those usually don’t work out for me. I need to let it happen and enjoy the process.

What is your educational background?

I am self-taught when it comes to painting and using different mediums. However, I have over 30 years of experience as a graphic designer.

What are some of the challenges you have faced while trying to pursue your passion?

I think time is my biggest challenge. I work full-time and have a family. I also returned to school to complete my education, which I started 30 years ago. Juggling all those different areas of my life can be difficult. Stress is not the best for my health because of Lupus and Fibromyalgia which I developed after neck surgery.

Have you encountered people who have been skeptical about your dreams?

I have encountered many who didn’t like my style. This comes with the territory. There are so many great artists out there and I believe variety helps people to connect with the art they choose to purchase.

How did you initially react to those people?

I am a sensitive person; I do take things personally. I think this is why art helps me heal. I am able to express my emotions through my paintings.

What are some of the fears you face?

I fear that one day I won’t be able to create. I fear not helping someone try to find a way to heal emotionally, mentally, and spiritually.

How do you deal with those fears?

I do my best to reach others through my social media. I am an art teacher who likes to show them how to be themselves. I give them a creative voice. I tell them they are not alone and to see themselves as an individual, not to compare themselves to others. I want to empower my students to be who they are created to be.

How do you work?

My brain is always working, it doesn’t stop; I try new things all the time. I began with acrylics and painting abstracts. Then I played around with faces using charcoal. I also used all the above methods to create unique mixed media pieces.

Worship music is my inspiration. The words touch my soul and it gives me the ability to put the emotions I am feeling on the canvas. It’s hard to explain but [when I do my art] I am removed from everyday life and I go to a peaceful place.

What role do you believe the artist plays in society?

As a Hispanic female I feel compelled to empower others like me. I wear many hats as a mom, dealing with a variety of illnesses and emotional trauma. I want to give a voice to the voiceless. I want them to know that they are not alone… and I do this through my art.

How do you feel your art form has the power to benefit society?

I believe my art expresses that art heals. I want people to see there is light in the darkness. My art gives me a platform to share my journey and I hope it helps others who are silently suffering.

Out of all your work, which piece resonates the most with you?

The piece that resonates the most with me is my autobiography. It is very dark with pictures of me getting radiation and my eye swollen because of lupus. This piece allowed me to scratch into the paint with all my emotions of my time when my disease was active. It also allowed me to see the support I got.

I added pictures of a chrysalis cut out into shapes of butterflies. I wanted to show myself emerging as a person.

Where do you see yourself going in the future as an artist?

I see myself as an artist who continues to grow, explore and teach others to enjoy the process. I look at art as part of life. Art represents where I am in my life. I share the happiness in my heart and I also show the emotional side of me.

By what terms do you measure success or perfection?

I do not measure perfection, because I do not believe in perfection, only God is perfect.

What does success look like to me? I think being recognized as an artist would be great. I wouldn’t mind being able to exhibit nationally.

“Ubuntu” means “I am because we are”. How have you seen that reflected in your own life?

“Ubuntu” is a new word for me. Once I found the meaning of Ubuntu, I knew I have been creating and teaching in such a way that warms my soul. My journey has prepared me to be open to learning from my own children and bringing those years to my classrooms. I have learned to grow from mistakes, trials, and loss. We have a short time on this earth and I don’t want to waste it. I want to share what I have learned with future generations so they do not have to learn the hard way. I am an artist and because as a teacher, we are able to empower the future. UBUNTU!

How has another artist or creative supported you to pursue your passion?

My husband and I are both graphic designers and he is my biggest supporter. He supported me when I wanted to homeschool the kids. He supported me during my illnesses and recoveries. He supported me in my career change. He supports me in my passion to share God’s love in me through my art.

What is some advice that you would give to anyone who is trying to walk the same path as you?

Life has a way of directing and teaching us. Sometimes those dark times in life are part of the journey. You may have a plan but be flexible if it changes. Negative influences may be the way to your own path. You must make your career choice YOURS. Never compare, it stills your joy. Be the light in the darkness. Remember, you are not alone and you are important.

“You may have a plan but be flexible if it changes.”

~ Lisa Holzl