Origins of Practice

My work as a multidisciplinary visual artist stems from a lifelong passion for storytelling through photography, journalism, and design. Growing up in South Africa and Namibia, my world was shaped by the striking contrasts between vast, arid landscapes and urban spaces; I have always been fascinated by the intimate details of human life (or lack thereof) within these spaces. 

When I reflect on my creative journey, a significant influence on how I see the world came as a child when I first encountered photographs of Kolmanskop, an abandoned mining town in Namibia. These images, shaped by time, silence, and decay, profoundly influenced my understanding of photography as a medium to convey both presence and absence.

In 2019, I returned to Kolmanskop to create a body of work examining the interplay of time, memory, and impermanence. This full-circle moment cemented my commitment to uncovering stories I find in lived spaces and deserted landscapes.

Artistic Philosophy and Process

My artistic approach is grounded in the act of observation, guided by an ethos of respect for the subjects I document. I take on the role of an quiet observer, the fly on the wall. I want to allow narratives to unfold organically, unaltered by my presence. The process is deliberate and immersive, evolving over time through thoughtful research and sustained interaction with the spaces and communities I engage with.

Light, texture, and movement are the visual languages through which I interpret my subjects. Whether documenting the erosion of forgotten spaces or the quiet rhythms of everyday life, I seek to capture moments that reflect the transient and enduring. Recently, my practice has expanded into minimalist abstract landscapes inspired by the muted tones and elemental forms of Iceland’s volcanic terrains. Influences from abstract expressionists such as Mark Rothko and Jackson Pollock resonate in this work as I explore the tension between structure and spontaneity.

Interdisciplinary Exploration

For over two decades, I have pursued a practice that spans the boundaries of photography, journalism, and design. Living and working across Asia for nearly ten years, I immersed myself in diverse visual traditions while continuing advanced studies in multimedia storytelling and journalism. This period marked a turning point in my practice, as I began experimenting with unconventional techniques such as photo haiku, analogue printing processes, and hand-printed image transfers. These explorations opened new avenues for narrative and abstraction, enabling me to approach my projects with a more expansive visual language.

As an educator and workshop facilitator, I have lectured and mentored students in creative writing, visual storytelling, text, image and sustainable design.  I want to foster dialogue on how artistic practices can respond to social and ecological challenges. Teaching is an extension of my practice, allowing me to inspire others to engage critically and creatively with the world around them.

Sustainability and Textile Design

My passion for visual storytelling has naturally extended into material culture. Driven by an interest in ecological responsibility, I have developed a body of work in sustainable textile design. Collaborating with master artisans in India and Southeast Asia, I work with natural dyes, organic cotton, and heritage printing methods to create textiles that honor traditional craft while addressing contemporary environmental concerns. Through my new textile studio, Māya, I aim to foster a dialogue between sustainability and cultural preservation, designing pieces that reflect both artistry and intention. Each textile is "designed to make a difference," embodying the studio’s commitment to ethical production, minimal waste, and the revival of heritage techniques.

Navigating the Human Condition

At its core, my work examines the intersections of culture, nature, and the human condition. Through my practice, I aim to uncover stories that lie hidden within forgotten landscapes, cultural traditions, and the spaces we inhabit. These stories, often subtle and ephemeral, invite reflection on the complexities of our shared existence and our relationship with the natural world.

Whether documenting the textures of an abandoned desert town, experimenting with abstract landscapes, or exploring sustainable design, my work seeks to create moments of connection—between past and present, between individuals and their environments. My practice is a deliberate act of slow creativity, rooted in the belief that art, when imbued with care and intention, has the power to transform perspectives and foster understanding.

For more about my work, visit:

lizanelouw.com (Visual Research and Project Archive)
ateliermaya.eu (Textile and Design)
studiolizanelouw.com (Art, Photography, and Prints)

My work is a continuous journey of exploration and discovery, a commitment to uncovering stories that connect us and our environments. I aim to create visual art and spaces for reflection and dialogue with each project, whether in photographs, text or design. Through my practice, I aim to inspire a deeper appreciation for the beauty, complexity, and resilience of both humanity and nature. My practice will continue to evolve with me; I remain dedicated to developing my craft, fostering collaboration, and creating work that quietly tells untold stories.