Meet Elizabeth Converse | Writer, Artist, Educator

We had the good fortune of connecting with Elizabeth Converse and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Elizabeth, the decisions we make often shape our story in profound ways. What was one of the most difficult decisions you’ve had to make?
The hardest decision I ever made was to fully commit to myself—believe in my abilities, set aside fear, and pursue my vision with dedication. As a writer and artist, I feel most at home immersed in my work. There I am able to center myself, connect with my own nature and write or paint wth authenticity. For me artistic expression is my practice, a meditation where I enter the flow. Consistently choosing self-belief, making thoughtful choices, and taking responsible actions to preserve this way of life has been key to shaping a life aligned with my creative and personal values. This commitment hasn’t always been easy or predictable, but it’s essential. Aligning this process with the reality of everyday life and it’s demands has always been challenging- one that most artists face.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My creative journey began in New York City in the 70s in SOHO, where I worked as an artist, writer, filmmaker, and in theater. This early exploration across artistic disciplines laid the groundwork for my future. In 1991, after returning to LA, I became a single mother, balancing roles as a mother, an arts writer, freelance decorative painter, fine art painter, professional organizer, and teacher. This challenging yet enriching period equipped me with a broad range of skills.

I returned to graduate school. In 1999.I founded a nonprofit organization that delivered original arts and literacy programs to underserved communities. These initiatives gave professional artists the chance to give back while working with youth in challenged areas. Partnering with organizations such as Pasadena/LEARNS, CASP, KidSpace, Ability First, and Scouts, substantial federal, state, and private foundation grants were secured, impacting thousands of children and families and training professionals in the field. Our programs received numerous awards and grants. In 2012, I passed the leadership to my colleague, Brande Jackson.

I now continue to evolve as a writer and artist. Publishing my first novel, *ROSEDUST*, in 2022 was a milestone that fuels my passion for writing. I’m now working on my second novel, *THE ONLY REASON*. I continue to exhibit and sell my artwork..

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I love the diversity of Los Angeles, from ocean to mountains. Though I live in the small, mountainside town of Sierra Madre, I remain rooted in Pasadena, where I grew up. This blend of solitude and vibrant city life continually inspires my creative pursuits.

Being an explorer and traveler at heart, I love both finding and returning to new places in the city from beach canyons and of the West Side to the Music and Theatre Center downtown to Huntington Library and Gardens, Norton Simon Museum, and the LA Arboretum. I love Vroman’s bookstore , Underdog Bookstore and Octavia’s Bookshelf in Pasadena, and all independent bookstores and libraries. Walking past the old monastery.in Azusa to the streams in my neighborhood. I love exploring our rich architectural heritage in Pasadena, and hiking our fabulous trails.. LA is a vast, diverse city, home to so many cultures and ways of life, so much art and cultures and food options.I doubt I can never leave LA again. for any extended period of time. I also love occasional visits to cities such as Redlands and Claremont, parts of Orange County and Long Beach, north to Ojai, Ventura and Santa Barbara and the entire coastline. Visiting almost any museum or library, anywhere.. I love going up to Crystal Lake or Mt Wilson to watch the meteor showers I spent over twenty years spending the summers in Del Mar, CA

My hometown has two new galleries, Baldwin Art Gallery and The LMF Gallery where we often host talks and readings. We are also home to the well established Sierra Madre Playhouse.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I am eternally grateful to both of my parents for guiding me and helping me find a life path that is coherent with who I am. I am also blessed with amazing children and friends who are sources of constant inspiration to me. My husband is my Rock. I stay connected to writing and reading groups and professional colleagues in the arts community.. Interactive, truthful and supportive discussions of our work are essential tor me to maintain the drive and enthusiasm to be a creative person in a challenging world for artists. I have learned patience and persistence by being at the table with others who share similar life paths and dreams. The road is rarely a straight line, and I have been blessed to find people, ideas and deeper values that have always sustained me. I have a deep spiritual practice.

Instagram: @econverse

Image Credits
Elizabeth Converse, Will Richter, Paul Gersten