by Mary Wilson (marywilson47589@outlook.com)
For over 25 years, Elizabeth Laul Healey, an American artist whose journey spans over 25 years of unwavering dedication to her craft. Born and raised amidst the vibrant atmosphere of Laguna Beach, California, Healey’s artistic odyssey is as diverse and colorful as her creations.
From her early days working at the renowned Sawdust Festival, where she honed her sales skills amidst a backdrop of creative fervor, to her role as the art director and operations manager at a luxury magazine, Healey’s path has been marked by a relentless pursuit of artistic excellence. Before fully immersing herself in the realm of art, she ventured into the world of acting, maintaining her membership with SAG/AFTRA—a testament to her multifaceted talents and unyielding passion for the arts.
Healey’s artistic vision finds its most captivating expression in her Iconostar sculptures. Crafted from a mesmerizing array of materials—including glass tile, stones, crystals, watches, and sea shells—each Iconostar is a testament to Healey’s boundless creativity and unwavering commitment to her craft. But these sculptures are more than mere amalgamations of materials; they are embodiments of feminine strength and empowerment.
Inspired by the question of what her alter ego would embody if given life, Healey conceived the idea of the Iconostar—a divine fusion of goddess and feminist icon. With wings and antlers adorning their heads as symbols of courage and strength, these figures exude power, love, compassion, and kindness. They stand as beacons of equality, unapologetically celebrating the beauty and strength inherent in every woman.
What sets Healey’s Iconostars apart is not just their physical beauty, but the profound message they convey. Each figure is a testament to self-confidence and acceptance, regardless of societal norms or expectations. With clear eyes that invite viewers to see themselves reflected within, these sculptures serve as mirrors of empowerment, inspiring all who encounter them to embrace their own unique journey.
Healey’s artistic journey is deeply intertwined with her personal experiences, notably her “circle of life series” of paintings—a poignant tribute to the cyclical nature of existence. Inspired by the birth of her daughter and the loss of her mother to breast cancer, these paintings speak to the interconnectedness of life and the enduring power of love and resilience. Now, these circles find new life within Healey’s sculptures, weaving a narrative that transcends time and space.
Each Iconostar is meticulously hand-carved by Healey herself, infused with a sense of intimacy and craftsmanship that is palpable in every detail. Adorned with glass, mosaic tiles, crystals, and an assortment of found objects, these sculptures are a testament to Healey’s artistic ingenuity and unwavering commitment to her vision.
As Healey continues to share her art with the world, her Iconostars serve as reminders of the transformative power of creativity and the enduring strength of the human spirit. From the sun-drenched shores of California to the vibrant streets of New York, her work resonates with audiences far and wide, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of all who encounter it.
In Elizabeth Laul Healey’s world, beauty is not confined to canvas or sculpture—it is a living, breathing testament to the resilience and grace of the human soul. Through her Iconostars, she invites us to embrace our own inner strength and celebrate the beauty that resides within us all.
