Bio
b. 1971, Leeds UK
Liz Foster was born in Leeds in 1971 and after several moves around the UK, is currently based near York in the north of England. She studied Fine Art (Drawing and Painting) at the Glasgow School of Art. Later studying for an MFA at the University of Hull, where she researched visual perception theory in relation to contemporary painting practice. Foster has developed her studio practice alongside a range of educational and community based work.
Her current paintings look at memory, time and loss which she brings to life through abstract mark-making and an enquiring use of colour, for which she is increasingly well know.
Foster has exhibited widely, including at the Royal Academy Summer Exhibition in 2021. Other notable venues include the Royal Scottish Academy, London Art Fair, The Mercer and The Ferens Art Galleries. She has work in both public and private collections, selling both within the UK and abroad. She has been long-listed for the John Moores Prize twice.
Education
University of Hull, MA Fine Art, 2002-04
Glasgow School of Art, BA(hons) Fine Art - Drawing and Painting, 1990-94
Artist Statement
My practice is one of continuous transition and evolution. My current paintings explore ideas around marking the passing of time; the repetitive brush marks act as a visual representation of transience - counting out moments one by one. By repeating and building layers of marks, they create a pattern. The pattern, in turn, forms rhythmic motifs and forms that can be read as macro or micro views of the world.
As a process-led painter I don’t plan a final image before I begin. I lay down marks and then respond to them, building a painting by adding, removing and editing the image over several months. I might use a particular colour palette to drive a work, but this also has to shift and evolve as the painting develops. For me, painting is a balance between control and instinct. The final composition only comes into focus towards the end of the process.
My paintings are abstract, reflecting my thoughts, feelings and memories but not illustrating them. The material quality of the paint is equally as important as the theme and colour is always central to what I do.
Painting is a fundamental expression of who I am, it is my language. I find joy in the materials and each work is a new adventure, posing questions and challenges that are limitless and fascinating.
Editorial
‘Featured Artist’ – An Interview with the Visual Artists Association – CLICK HERE TO READ
‘Meet the Artists’ – Q&A with ONE GOOD GIFT
‘Aesthetic grit and fish & chips’ – Interview with Northern Soul CLICK HERE TO READ