Lizz Freeman Kelly

I am a self taught fiber and textile artist living in New Orleans with my partner, daughter, and four cats.

My practice combines my background in photography with a love of textiles. I utilize primarily second hand, salvaged, or repurposed materials in my work. I gravitate toward processes that are often described by others as tedious, but I find to be meditative. Recently I have been fixated on exploring the process of thread painting. These pieces involve many hours hyper focused on a small area of space, sewing machine needle moving at light speed, which leaves room for being present in the moment and nothing else. The act of making is the important part for me; and the finished piece is the result of exploring the creative process, experimenting with technique, and introspection.

 In my 25 years practicing art, I have often gravitated to self-portraits. Lately I have been using photographs from a decade ago as the basis for thread paintings. I am still trying to unravel what I like so much about the process.  Something about past and future selves communing. Working together to create.