Artists' Talk: Elisa Ann Lindstrom & Dorothy Mason

About Elisa Ann Lindstrom:

My story:

After growing up in Evanston, I went to art school. But instead of becoming a full-time artist, I moved to New York and started working for not-for-profits, hoping I would have time to paint after work. Well, that didn’t exactly go as planned. For the next few years, I worked in different organizations but didn’t get a chance to really work on my art.

It wasn’t until after getting a degree in social work, becoming burnt out from the stress, and getting laid off that I actually began to paint again. I was able to incorporate art into my life and also found that my work as a social worker and therapist leaked into the work I did as an artist.

For the next 15-20 years, my art was largely inspired by nature. I sketched moments of flowers blooming on white canvas to appreciate the beauty in the everyday. I created landscapes exploring how open skies bring a feeling of calm and peace.

And then, after the most recent election, I felt called to create a new series. This series continues to look to nature and introduces activism and alchemy to my body of work.

About the Elements Series:

Since ancient times, the four elements (earth, air, fire, water) have been used to represent various symbols of change. In this series, I explore the four elements as a response to feelings of hopelessness, anger, fear, and sadness that come from our history and have been amplified by the current political climate.

Each painting is a representation of an element, and I have included a symbol or talisman to represent ideas and feelings to use to help fight for change.

I look to inspire all of us to find ways to change our current society using elements and symbols as guides.

Learn More: Website | Instagram | Facebook

About Dorothy Mason:

My artistic journey is an homage to the natural world—a visual symphony celebrating its inherent beauty, tranquility, and transformative essence. Through a delicate interplay of texture, color, and form, I craft immersive experiences that beckon viewers to rediscover their connection with nature and find solace in its subtle whispers.

Nature has always been my sanctuary, a wellspring of inspiration that informs my artistic vision. In my work, I seek to recreate the serenity I find in the outdoors, offering a portal to healing and introspection. As I paint, time slows, and a profound sense of calm washes over me—a feeling I aspire to share with those who engage with my art.

My creative process begins in the open air, where I sketch scenes using pencils and graphite sticks, capturing the essence of landscapes that speak to my soul. These field studies then evolve into watercolor or oil paintings in the intimate space of my studio, allowing me to distill and amplify the peace I’ve experienced.

With a foundation in fine arts from Illinois State University and further studies at The Art Institute of Chicago, I honed my craft while maintaining a career in graphic design. This dual path has enriched my artistic perspective, allowing me to blend precision with organic expression.

Through my art, I invite viewers to pause, breathe, and reconnect with the quiet moments that nature offers. It is my hope that each piece serves as a gentle reminder of our place within the grand tapestry of the natural world, inspiring a sense of harmony and renewed appreciation for the beauty that surrounds us.

Learn More: Website | Instagram | Facebook

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Fun Fact: With over 100 works on display, Creative Coworking never takes a commission: 100% of the selling price goes directly to the artists. Consider gifting local art this holiday season, most of the art on display is ready to buy directly from the wall!

Plus, ongoing exhibitions by these fine Evanston & Chicagoland artists:

Raissa Bailey • David Bender • Michael Berns • Zhanna Biletska • Annelise Bronsveld • Melanie Deal • Elyse Fineman • Kathryn Gauthier • Larry Geni • Kathy Gemperle • Ted Glasoe • Rebecca Hill • Fran Joy • Sarah Kaiser-Amaral • Virginia Kondziolka • Ian Lantz • Janet Latshaw Simons • Elisa Ann Lindstrom • Rhonda Long • Joseph Masunas • Christine McClure • Robyn McMurray Hurtig • James L. Merriner • Angela Murphy • Kristen Neveu • Annette Kirsten Patko • Adriana Poterash • Carolyn Potts • Virginia O. Roeder • Ron Rutowski • Robert Shiverts • Sorcha • Kyriakina Valavanis • Bruce Lee Vernon • Komal Wadhwa • David Wilkerson Jr. • Angela Williams • Jerry Woods

Learn more about Creative Coworking fine art gallery here

If you have questions about our Evanston art gallery or are interested in displaying work, please email [email protected].

And follow Creative Coworking on Facebook • Instagram

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