When Liezel Spangenberg grabs her paintbrush, it’s as if she’s opening the door to her very own world. Her canvas becomes home to animals, flowers, people and splashes of her signature blue.
For Liezel Spangenberg, every stroke carries a deeper meaning. And lucky for us, she’s invited us into this vivid world of hers. Think expressionism … acrylic paint on wood (especially spool boards), with touches of graphite. Each piece totally unique and different from the last.
As if she was born with a pencil in hand, Liezel’s earliest memories include sitting on her grandparents’ staircase, sketching with her sister while the grown-ups did their thing. Always that little girl doodling in church (and in class, but shhh)! It’s safe to assume art has always been a part of her, even after many, many years.
‘After school, I spent two years studying Graphic Design, but my life took a turn when I embarked on a nine-year-long adventure with an international humanitarian organisation. While travelling the world on a ship, I encountered countless cultures and creative styles, all of which deepened my love for art.
‘Around a decade ago, I came back home and reconnected with my family. Just in time to face the loss of my father a year before the pandemic. And so, grief, combined with lockdown, reignited my passion for drawing and painting. And after one or two art courses, things really began to bloom. However, it wasn’t until mid-2022, after being retrenched, that I felt God was nudging me to take the leap of faith, and pursue art full-time.’
And so, she did. The first time her art stirred an emotional response in someone, she realised the kind of impact she wanted it to have. It was in that instant she knew … creating art that moves people was her true calling.
While she loves painting all things nature, and in pretty colours, it’s lions that have truly captured her heart. Nine out of ten times, if you catch Liezel at work, she’s painting a majestic lion. She’s also come to love the chaos before the calm … splattering paint everywhere and turning her home studio into somewhat of a colourful mess. Because, she admits, that’s when the real magic happens. And it’s this messy magic that eventually led to the birth of Elsah – Art by Liezel Spangenberg.
Liezel’s fiancé, Roelf, is also part of the action. He custom-makes her plywood and MDF canvases and, with a snap of her fingers, he’s there to happily hang them too. Together, they make a great team and, bonus … they get to spend loads of time together, which they both love.
Fast forward to today, and other than her commission list filling up a month in advance, her art is proudly displayed in a lovely coffee shop in Krugersdorp. She also teamed up with incredible artist Lumain van Vuuren to launch Canvas and Coffee – a fun get-together where they teach people how to paint using coffee as the medium.
In addition to painting, she started teaching art classes earlier this year. With just two students at the moment, her one-on-one approach allows her to dive deep into the areas they need help with, creating a personal and rewarding learning experience. But one day, she dreams of teaching larger groups in her very own studio.
You can find Liezel’s beautiful work at Lexi’s Coffee Shop in Krugersdorp, and if you’re up for a little road trip, you can check out Die Herberg Bediening gift shop in Naboomspruit. Her journey is just beginning, and, let’s just say the world better be ready for more of her magic.
Details: Visit @Elsah – Art by Liezel Spangenberg on Facebook and @elsah_artza on Insta
How has your style changed over time?
At first, I focussed on trying to paint realistically and soon found the restrictions were too much with little room to express myself. In the last four years, I have found my style which is more of an expressionistic style.
What sets you apart as an artist?
My style is characterised by messy backgrounds and strong expressive graphic lines. There is also usually an abundance of blue or a complete monochromatic blue colour palette.
Three qualities any good artist should have?
The ability to see or find something beautiful around them. Secondly, a willingness to keep learning and experimenting. Lastly, a passion for creating.
The best remedy for an artistic block?
A change of direction. Get up and take a walk or do something else for a while. For me, this is cleaning. When I am stuck, I put down the paintbrush and start cleaning. I find the physical act of cleaning sometimes helps with decluttering my mind too. Most times after I spend some time on other tasks an idea or solution pops up and I can move in behind the easel with a new vision again.
Your fave time of day to create?
At night. The noise and distractions disappear and when the only light in the room comes from my easel it feels like I paint faster and more intentionally and with total abandon.
Your biggest artistic influences?
Vincent Van Gogh, Eric Robitaille, NB Artistry and Julie T Chapman.
What inspires you?
God inspires me. He gives me hope and that is what I wish to share through my art.
Any unusual creative habits?
I have very strict studio habits like the music has to be on. Brushes do not stay in the water for longer than a few seconds. And pens are stored horizontally.
How do you unwind?
Watching a Turkish TV series on YouTube, haha. Or scouting for new recipes on the internet. I also enjoy trying out new venues and restaurants with my sister.
Must-see art exhibits
The local art scene is expanding like crazy, and it’s perfect for new and established artists to display their finest work so, Liezel has listed her top 5 places to view some art in the West Rand.
• Ngwenya Glass Village in Muldersdrift
• Lexi’s Coffee Shop in Krugersdorp
• Antique Shack in Muldersdrift
• Alice Art Gallery in Ruimsig
• Geroeste Daisy in Randfontein
