Artist Spotlight: Elizabeth Dryden

"The Early Bird gets the Worm" by Elizabeth Dryden pictured above.

Elizabeth Dryden is a professional artist based in Dallas, Texas. “I have painted ever since I was a little girl and eventually graduated with a BFA in Art Education.” She offers her prints, originals, and more on her website, www.elizabethdryden.com

Elizabeth was inspired to become an artist by her innate desire to create. “Seeing all of the creation in nature, and the diversity in everything has really been inspirational to what my current type of art is. I focus on desert scenes of flora and fauna that live in harsh conditions yet remain so beautiful.” As an artist, she enjoys the avenue to express herself that art affords. “I enjoy the freedom to express myself which feels like my own language to the world. Creating gives me energy and joy and I love to have the opportunity to share my passion with others.”

"Two Tatankas" by Elizabeth Dryden pictured above.

Elizabeth’s favorite art piece is “Kiss” by Gustav Klimt. "You can feel the emotion just by looking at the piece, it puts you there in that feeling of passion and love. Plus his use of gold leaf makes it look breathtakingly beautiful.” In her own work, she enjoys depicting plants and animals. “I enjoy painting plants and animals of the American Southwest because this is where I am from. I love to see how they can survive such dry and desolate conditions, and thorns that are so uninviting, yet have the brightest, most beautiful flowers and colors when they bloom. There is a paradox here that fascinates me.” 

"Armadillo by Morning" by Elizabeth Dryden pictured above.

When beginning a new project or piece, Elizabeth is often inspired by nature. “I like to reset my mind before starting a new piece by being outside in nature. Going for a hike or a walk at the lake and paying attention to all of the variety in the plants and animals around me. Did you know there are over 12,000 different species of grass types? That's a lot of different shapes and color combinations to pay attention to. It can be overwhelming. Lots of material outside to see to inspire a new piece!” To aspiring artists, Elizabeth encourages perseverance. “Keep going. And for every one person who doesn't like what you're doing, there will be five more that will. It is your creation and nobody else's so don't be shy and make what you love!”

"Creation's Critters" by Elizabeth Dryden pictured above.

Elizabeth found Golden State Art when searching for mat boards for her prints. “I order your Matt board sets to mat my prints before art shows and festivals. The mat board sets that I order help me immensely to package and sell my prints in a professional manner that protects them from fingerprints when people are looking through them. I love how polished they look with the matting around them and the clear plastic bag provides great durability. Thank you for a great product!” 

Elizabeth currently has four shows coming up, and the launch of a new collaboration. “I have 4 shows coming up in the next few months! I also designed boots for Dixon Boot company with my Southwestern flare that are set to launch this Fall! Looking forward to all that's ahead!”

To learn more and keep up with Elizabeth’s future projects, visit her links below.

Elizabeth’s Website: www.elizabethdryden.com

Elizabeth’s Instagram: @elizabethdrydenfineart

Elizabeth’s Facebook: @edrydenpaintings