I, Elizabeth Mayston, am an Algarve artist who draws inspiration from my Euro-African roots, bringing what I describe as the "gift of essence" to my multimedia portfolio. Authenticity and truth in being are at the core of everything I create, whether through painting, photography, ceramics, textile design, or home décor. As an artist painting in the Algarve, I find endless inspiration in my surroundings, allowing nature to guide my creative expression.

Whether capturing the colour and texture of fynbos, the flora endemic to the Cape of Africa, where I grew up and raised my family, or the rich tones of a camellia lifted from the landscape of Southern Portugal, nature remains my constant companion. I am deeply influenced by my love of the outdoors, where pathways emerge as a recurring theme. My work explores the visual contrasts and harmonies between earth and sky, the natural and the human, often reflected in my portraits.

While the camera allows me to capture a fleeting moment of beauty, the strokes of my brush in oil painting give me the freedom to express mood and emotion. Using macro settings in photography opens new dimensions in how I see my subjects and how they later transfer onto canvas.

My artistic journey began with Biz Liz Upholstery, a highly successful enterprise where I honed my skills in pattern-making and furniture restoration, techniques I acquired in Paris. This passion for craftsmanship later expanded into earthenware and hand-painted ceramics, allowing me to merge functionality with artistic expression.

During my 17 years in the real estate industry in Cape Town, my creativity remained constant. I utilized my photography skills to capture the essence of homes while listing properties and also completed commissioned paintings for several clients. Art remained an integral part of my life, flowing naturally alongside my professional work.

In Portugal, I proudly owned Galeria MonChic, curating and showcasing my paintings alongside bespoke artisan gifts. Today, I, Elizabeth Mayston continue my artistic journey as an Algarve artist, where I paint, create, and welcome visitors to my atelier by appointment.