Liz Haywood

August 2024’s Featured Artist

Artist Bio:

I’ve been drawing and painting ever since I could hold a crayon. After attaining the position as head of graphic design for the popular shoe brand Dolce Vita, I focused on establishing myself as an independent artist. Returning to the South, I developed a steady demand for my art through social media and local showings. In Atlanta, I painted several murals in public spaces to voice my social concerns. After relocating to Charlotte, I created a body of work for festivals and art shows, including Bethesda Art Row in Maryland and The Festival in the Park in Charlotte. I was awarded an Honorable Mention by SouthEnd Arts and the Brooklyn Collective in 2021. That year, I was also accepted into a mural residency program by Brand the Moth, where I completed my capstone mural at Lenny Boy Brewing Company. My work gained national attention after being juried into the ArtPop class of 2022. Following this, I was accepted to a seven-month art residency program at The Village at Commonwealth in 2023. My most recent mural, at 625 square feet, was made possible by the ArtPop Inspiration Project and Charlotte Neighborhood Matching Grant programs.

Artist Statement:

In my life, I’ve often been labeled as opinionated, but I channel that passion into my art, addressing pressing social issues with hope and a drive for change. My work delves into profound questions about life, advocating for a better world through art. Themes of defiance, community, and our place in the universe are central to my creations, aiming
to provoke thought and inspire progress. Murals, as an art form, belong to everyone, and I strive to reach a wider audience by exploring various artistic expressions. Ultimately, my art aims to uplift spirits and ignite action, serving as a catalyst for social change and prompting viewers to confront important issues with open hearts and
curious minds. The vibrant colors that define my work are intended to brighten moods and inspire involvement in efforts to make a positive impact.