Artist Statement

The experiences and memories we accumulate throughout our lives significantly influence our thoughts, perceptions, and interactions with the world. I create cast metal sculptures that encapsulate the essence of the memories, experiences, and cultures that have shaped my identity. Through the art of metalworking, I delve into gestures, textures, colors, and various metal combinations to reinterpret a memory. My work revolves around the dynamic interplay of opposing forces. The art I produce utilizes inclusions—a casting technique involving the mixing of elements during the process—to unify objects by layering metal over another metal or object. This approach enhances the bond, allowing the weaker element to adopt the properties of the stronger, culminating in a cohesive new material.

Penguins play a prominent role in my artwork as a symbol of my identity. Despite 18 species of penguins primarily thriving in warmer climates, many people associate them with the Arctic and frigid temperatures. Only four species inhabit the Arctic, yet in Western societies, they are often mistakenly categorized as cold-weather birds, sometimes confused with puffins. Liz spent much of her youth on the southern islands of the Philippines and frequently visited Hong Kong to connect with her grandparents and extended family. She grew up leading a multicultural, nomadic lifestyle before finally settling in Grand Junction, CO, in 2011.