From the ethereal creation of a butterfly robe hovering in midair to the concrete stable foundation of an artist's book of a cathedral, Liz Mitchell's creations defy and amaze. Liz is one of four book artists who are part of "Crossing the Delaware: Miller, Mitchell, Pisano and Riker" on display in the Simon Room, Skillman Library, Lafayette College, Easton, PA. She has spent her creative life exploring a wide range of subjects, materials and processes encompassing painting, printmaking, fiber, collage and combining them into her book arts creations. Her love of art, science and psychology charges her work with spirit, emotion and the sublime. She explores the nature of humanity, its dreams and spirituality and the creation of myth and fairy tale. From simple constructed artist's books to installations, Liz's work takes time...time to visually wander, ponder and consider. Her works are special to behold. In her words: "My attempt is to transcend recognizable materials into time worn, organic surfaces through processes such as cutting, tearing, painting, printing, waxing and layering. Thoughtful decisions are made regarding materials as they relate to content and context. Metaphorically these processes represent the changes that occur through the passage of time and experience, sharing her memories and experiences through her art." She incorporates her rich memories of childhood of growing up in a large Catholic family in a small town and its intricate fabric of family dynamics and relationships; she uses paper, hair, fabric and clay along with writing, research and experimentation with materials and processes to create one of a kind works that demand time and contemplation. Beginning in 2001, Liz Mitchell complete a limited edition artist's book at Lafayette College's Experimental Institute and returned two more times as an artist in residence. Her first work at EPI documented her family's involvement in the building of the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart in Newark, NJ. Since then, she has continued her book and printmaking experience at the Printmaking Center of New Jersey. Liz is not just artist. In 2006, she curated "Meraviglia: Innovations in the Book Arts" at Lafayette College at the Williams Center bringing together book artists from all over the country for one of the finest exhibits in Pennsylvania on artists' books. Her works are included in many private and public collections and has presented at the annual New Jersey Book Arts Symposium at Rutgers University.. She will be part of an artists' panel on Wednesday, March 25th at 4:15 p.m. discussing her philosophy and processes on the creation of her works. It's worth the time and travel to view her wonderful works. The exhibit will be on display in the Simon Room of Skillman Library through May! Stop in and check out her website at www.lizmitchell.net.!
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