My Art Process
Between Realism & Abstraction
My style blends realism with abstraction. This means that I often hone in on one area of a subject with realistic details, letting the rest dissolve into abstract layers of color and texture. This combination of focus and freedom shapes each piece’s energy.
Below is a process video of me creating my painting, 'Emerge'.
I enjoy capturing the journey of each piece. You can follow along with more process videos on my Instagram Reels: @elizabethcheekart
The Beginning: Charcoal & Graphite
I usually first sketch the composition with charcoal and watersoluble graphite. There’s something raw and alive about this stage, the lines, the textures and the feeling of potential. Sometimes, the beginnings are so compelling that I've sold a piece before I even moved on to the painting stage.
Playful Layers: Mixed Media
Next comes the messy, experimental part. I layer pan pastels, acrylics, alcohol inks, spray paint…sometimes collage or gold leaf. It’s where intentional marks meet spontaneity and happy accidents. Colours collide, textures build, and the piece starts to find its energy. This is my “play” stage, the part where I let go and explore.
Bringing it Together: Oils
Finally, I move to oils. Here, I refine, deepen, and add vibrancy. Oils give the piece richness and a sense of cohesion, balancing the spontaneity of the earlier layers with focus and depth.
