Lizma Schoeman
Somerset East/Kwanojoli
Driven by curiosity and color - I create work that’s direct, vibrant and unapologetically personal.
Message
I am a self-taught artist whose vibrant oil paintings reflect a lifelong dialogue with color, light, and the beauty of the everyday. Originally from the Eastern Cape, my artistic voice was shaped by the rich hues and textures of the African landscape, which continue to influence my deeply personal and intuitive approach to art. A pivotal moment came during mid mid-twenties while living in London, where a period of serious health challenges shifted the course of my life. Upon returning to South Africa, an unexpected spark was ignited during a first oil painting workshop—launching a passionate journey into the world of fine art. Now based in the picturesque town of Somerset East (Kwanojoli), I find joy and inspiration in travel, observation and the quiet resonance of inner knowing. My current focus includes figures, still life and florals; painted not to convey hidden messages, but to offer an honest and joyful interpretation of my subjects—inviting viewers to pause, connect and feel.
Statement
While my art is a bit of a love affair with color, curiosity and the chaos of being human; it is also a selfish pursuit of challenging, creating and experiencing myself, (not only artistically, but also mentally and emotionally). Of all the elements of art, color is the element I engage with most deliberately. A deeper understanding of color and the interaction of it with other elements of art, is what keeps me glued to my easel. Color serves not only as a visual tool but as a means of emotional and spatial expression. I use color to create atmosphere, direct attention and evoke responses that words cannot. It’s the part of my process I return to with the most curiosity and care.
The subject matter I choose, often stems from something I have visually experienced or from engaging and connecting with others during my day. Figurative work, florals and still life are currently my primary interests. Working in oils, my work can be characterized by an exploration of color with loosely layered brushwork.