Broad gestural strokes, vibrant hues, rich textures, and paintings that pack a political punch. For Charlotte-based artist Liz Haywood, art is her form of protest.
Using primarily spray paint, latex paint, gouache and acrylic markers, Haywood paints small canvases and transforms buildings. For her, art serves as a powerful medium to express her social concerns, tackling difficult subjects such as the state of women’s rights, American politics, and environmentalism.
“Although much of my art speaks to the power and choice of women, I believe all humans are worthy of dignity and respect,” Haywood explained. “In my series ‘The World is a Rainbow,’ you can see that it takes all kinds of people to make the world go around.”
Locally Grown, Nationally Known
Born and raised in Charlotte, Haywood’s passion for art has led her across the country, landing her opportunities in cultural hubs like New York City. Now, back in the Queen City, she is focusing on projects that benefit her local community. Haywood’s latest mural, located at the Lake Mist apartments — an affordable housing complex in Charlotte — was made possible by the ArtPop Inspiration Project and Charlotte Neighborhood Matching Grant programs.
Drawing inspiration from the Lake Mist community residents, Haywood created a striking 625-square-foot mural, capturing the spirit of the neighborhood. The mural features images of butterflies, hummingbirds, and local flora, with bright splashes of yellow and green. If there’s one thing to know about Haywood, it’s that she loves to utilize bright, vibrant colors.
We sat down with her to discuss the most recent Liz Haywood art, “Alien Worlds,” a series of paintings that explore feminist futurescapes. We also discussed her artistic journey, her political views, and her future goals as an artist.
Tell us about your journey within the world of art. How and what initially introduced you to it?
I’ve been drawing and painting ever since I could hold a crayon. Professionally, after attaining the position of head of graphic design for the popular shoe brand Dolce Vita, I focused on establishing myself as an independent artist. I headed back to the South and 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.
You’ve mentioned that Liz Haywood art often addresses social concerns. What are some of the social causes you’re most passionate about? and how do you use your creative work to bring attention to them?
I’m passionate about several social causes, with women’s rights being at the forefront. In the future, I want to create more work addressing environmental conservation and animal welfare. My art most often reflects feminist themes through vibrant, imaginative representations of strong female figures. In my most recent series “Alien Worlds,” you can see that women are not going anywhere. We are here now, and we’ll be here in the future. So men may as well get used to us having a voice. Ultimately, I believe art has the power to spark conversation and encourage reflection. Consequently, I aim to use my creative work to bring attention to these issues and inspire positive change.
What sparks your creativity and what inspires you to continue pursuing art in your career?
In my life, I’ve often been labeled as opinionated. In my art, I channel that passion into addressing pressing social issues with hope and a drive for change. All in all, 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 art, aiming to provoke thought and inspire progress.
How does painting make you feel? What do you wish your work made others feel?
Murals are an art that belongs to everyone. I want to explore more art forms to reach a wider audience. I strive to create pieces that draw people in. Ultimately, my art aims to uplift spirits and ignite action. I want it to catalyze social change, 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. If you’re feeling down, viewing my art with its signature bright colors might be just what you need to lift your spirits and inspire you to join me in working to make a difference.
How is the process of creating something as large as a mural unique? What’s fun and what’s challenging?
I love painting big! My background as a graphic designer, crafting window displays and trade show backdrops, greatly aids me in the planning stages. The most challenging aspect is definitely the weather. Summer can be excruciatingly hot. In winter, metallic spray paint cans can become too cold to hold, and the paint’s texture changes, making it harder to flow. I’ve painted in all sorts of conditions, so it’s crucial to stay mindful of your body’s limitations and stay healthy — no masterpiece gets done if you’re passed out from the heat!
When I start a new piece, the process is dynamic and physical. First, I begin with assertive, gestural strokes using an acrylic pen to outline the overall composition. These bold lines guide my vision and help me see the artwork’s potential. Next, I block in the base colors using spray paint, providing a vibrant and flexible foundation. Ultimately, color is everything to me. Bright hues have a positive, energizing effect, making it easier to approach intimidating or discouraging subjects.
