Hi, I’m Elaine Lazarus.

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The name Elaine, derived from the French form of Helen and the Greek Helene, means "torch of light." I’ve always felt this meaning captures my essence—a desire to illuminate, inspire, and bring warmth to any situation where darkness might linger. Carmel, where I now live, translates to "fertile place" in Hebrew—a fitting backdrop for my creative journey.

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In my art, trees are a central motif, symbolizing life, growth, and the fundamental needs that connect us all. They provide shelter, nourishment, and wisdom, and their branches reach outward, signifying connection, spiritual growth, and the beauty of interdependence. Beyond symbolism, tree branches also serve as a design element in my work, gracefully weaving together bold colors, patterns, shapes, lines, and themes of femininity and nature to create a harmonious, interconnected world.

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My love for art was sparked at the age of 13 when I received a Gold Key Scholastic Art Award for a sculpture my eighth-grade teacher entered into a juried show. The following year, during a family trip to London, I visited the Tate Gallery and discovered the work of David Hockney. His retrospective captivated me and ignited a lifelong admiration for his bold creativity. Hockney became my muse and a source of inspiration that continues to influence my art.

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In high school, I poured myself into creating art and studying, determined to gain acceptance into Cornell University’s prestigious fine arts program, which admitted only 25 students. I achieved that goal and spent four years immersed in painting, photography, and computer graphics while exploring advertising, public relations, and marketing—fields that fascinated me and complemented my artistic pursuits. I graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree.

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After college, I embarked on a career in graphic design, hesitant to embrace the uncertainties of life as a “starving artist.” While I channeled my creativity into design, I continued to nurture my personal art at home. For years, I hesitated to share my work with the world, fearing criticism or rejection of something so deeply personal.

 

I’m ready to step into the light and share my art with you. It’s a journey of seeing, feeling, and communicating the beauty and complexity of the world as I experience it. Thank you for taking the time to explore my work. I hope it resonates with you and that you’ll join me on this evolving creative adventure.

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With love and gratitude,
Elaine