To our abstract lovers... we have a treat for you! We are so excited to introduce y'all to Elizabeth Marin - a Charleston gal that is the latest to join the Well + Wonder crew! Elizabeth is an expressionist painter. To her, painting is a tool for self-discovery and expression. Elizabeth’s work explores the commonality between beauty and imperfection. Among many things, she is inspired by blooming flowers, unexpected composition and colors, good design, and the feeling of springtime. Over the years, her work has depicted nature; including blossoming magnolia flowers and coastal seascapes. Recently, she has been exploring abstraction through collage and painting on raw canvas. Self-taught, Elizabeth discovered painting as a career after moving to Charleston, South Carolina and seeing first-hand the thriving artist community around her. She works out of her home studio and wanders the city for inspiration. Her first Well + Wonder collection PURE COLOR releases Thursday at 10am EST but until then might we interest you in a little light reading? Get to know Elizabeth more by reading below!
What is currently on your nightstand?
My cactus, whichever book I’m currently reading, and my phone.
Who is your biggest influence as an artist and why?
My answer is constantly changing. Currently, I am inspired by the abstract expressionist work of Helen Frankenthaler. I think it’s fascinating how she worked and how innovative she was, especially at that time. On the other hand, I always love seeing what Spanish artist Miriam Dema is up to. I have been obsessed with her work since I came across her piece ‘Merienda de Confinamiento’ in 2020, and I love the way her work has so many layers and textures. Her work reminds me to keep painting the things that inspire me in my everyday life.
Tell us about your childhood. What is the most memorable moment as a young person?
For me, the best parts of childhood involved playing outside. I especially loved swimming and playing in the water. I think that’s why I love going to the beach so much now.
If you could only have one supply in your art studio, what would it be and why?
Acrylics! They’re so versatile.
What is your favorite room in your house? Describe it.
I would have to say our bedroom is my favorite room in the house. It gets amazing natural light during the day, and it’s on the second floor in front of two large maple trees, so it feels like you’re in a tree house. We are fortunate enough to have two original art pieces on either side of the bed, a Minnow commission from Sally Bunting and an original Nest from Raven Roxanne. Also, the room has lots of plants, books, and minimal furniture to keep it a relaxed space.
What is your biggest score online?
I just bought my wedding dress online from Etsy! We’re eloping in Paris next year, and I came across the dress a while ago. I’m so excited to wear it.
What is the benefit of buying art through a collective? What do you recommend for those that are new to buying original art?
Buying art through a collective has the benefit of being curated. Purchasing original art can be intimidating and overwhelming, especially if you’re starting with a minimal collection. I would suggest finding an artist that you like and exploring their work. Art collectives are great at show casing emerging artists and providing work at different price points.
If you have the entire day to spend in an art museum, which one and why?
I could spend SO much time at the MoMA (The Museum of Modern Art). It might be one of my favorite places in the world – it has such a great collection and an entire room devoted to Matisse, one of my all-time favorites. Not to mention that it’s in New York City.
What is your favorite hotel and what makes it special?
I really love the Post House Inn in Mount Pleasant. It has such a cozy atmosphere and great design. My family and I usually celebrate birthdays in the restaurant downstairs.
If you were a lipstick color would you be red, pink, or clear and why?
I would probably be red lipstick because I think it’s important to be bold and add color to your life when possible.
I can never get on a plane without…
Headphones! I can’t travel (or paint) without listening to music. It calms me down and helps me get into a flow state.
How did you get into the world of art?
I’ve always been intrigued by the art world, but once I moved to Charleston, I saw that being an artist could be more than just a dream. I saw real, full-time artists all around me and that’s when I decided to pursue art professionally.
What do you do to relax?
I find that exercise always clears my head. Whether that is running, yoga, or even just walking my dog, Charlie.
When do you get the biggest surge of inspiration?
Springtime is a huge source of inspiration for me. The sun is out longer, the air is warmer, and of course, the flowers are blooming. It feels like the world is waking up and it has such great energy.
Prediction for the Color of 2024?
I feel like olive green has been having its moment, especially in interior design. That would be fun to see as the Color of 2024!
What is your idea of a date night? Dinner and a movie or dancing all night?
To me, the ideal date night would be to get dinner and drinks out somewhere, then heading home for a movie night.
Tell us about your favorite painting that you have created.
My favorite painting that I’ve made is probably Haint Blue Magnolias. This was the first large-scale magnolia piece that I had made at the time and I had so much fun playing with the composition and different shapes. It was a challenge, but in the best way possible. Also, I loved the feeling when it all came together.
One piece of advice for buying original art?
I don’t think you can go wrong with buying original art. With that said, I think it’s a good idea to take you time when growing your collection. Find pieces that are really meaningful to you, and reach out to artists for commissions if you really enjoy their work. If you don’t know where to look, I would start with your favorite artist collective.
