Elizabeth Baxter Art
Oil paintings | Drawings | Illustrations
About the Artist
Elizabeth Baxter BA, MA, MSc.
Born in 1995 and growing up in Killarney, Co. Kerry, Elizabeth developed a keen interest in art from a young age. She first exhibited at the Royal Hibernian Academy at age 19 while at secondary school in Dublin. Inspired by the Old Masters and classical painting, she studied traditional techniques at the Angel Academy of Art in Florence. Education in both realms of art and academia have been her central focus and motivation. Having lived in Dublin for over a decade, she relocated to Killarney in 2019, where her recent artwork is heavily influenced by her academic studies in cultural heritage, antiquity and rural life.
Selected Exhibitions
Frankenstein, exhibited at the Royal Hibernian Academy’s 184th Annual Exhibition, Dublin – Charcoal on paper.
Bare Bear, exhibited at the Royal Ulster Academy’s 144th Annual Exhibition at the Ulster Museum, Belfast – Oil on panel.
How would I describe my artistic style?
My work aligns with traditional realist art. I enjoy creating detailed, representational paintings and drawings that reflect classical methods. Traditional realism combines multiple disciplines, which is something I find both engaging and inspiring.
How long does it take to create a painting?
Each painting takes me a few months from start to finish. I typically spend about four hours a day painting if I don’t have other commitments. While painting is relaxing, it also requires concentration and focus. I take breaks between painting sessions to avoid rushing the process.
Is painting my main or only medium?
I consider painting / drawing as my main medium. I also enjoy crochet, sewing and embroidery. I like exploring 3D elements of crafts—they offer new perspectives on shape and texture.
What inspires my work?
A variety of diverse interests and studies inform my work, and I’m inspired by layered meanings, nuances and complexities of life. Sometimes I have numerous ideas and complete paintings one after another. Other times, I may not paint for several years as I focus on other creative projects.
What techniques do I use?
Many of my paintings feature dramatic chiaroscuro lighting which I always find visually interesting. When painting, I like to work in small sections, finishing one area before moving to the next. I start with the focal point rather than the background, since it captures the viewer’s attention most. I follow all the rules of colour theory carefully as it’s essential for achieving realism.
How have my academic studies influenced my work?
My studies in archaeology have shaped how I view art and creativity. Learning about the lives of people from the past has shown me that ordinary, everyday moments can carry multiple meanings. Art, across cultures and eras, reflects human experience and identity. Most importantly, archaeology taught me the value of time.
How do I choose my subjects?
​It often takes weeks to find the right reference. I choose subjects connected to my life: people I admire, familiar places, pets, or animals. I also consider practical matters such as composition or lighting and how these will translate into a painting. Choosing the right subject and reference ensures the final piece is both visually pleasing and personally meaningful.
What keeps me motivated as an artist?
Completing a piece I’ve poured time and effort into is my greatest motivation. Art brings me immense joy, and enjoying the process is just as important as the finished work. I stay motivated by researching the technical and historical elements of painting, as well as film, literature and photography.
Who are my favourite artists?
William Bouguereau and Julien Dupré are my top two. Lately, I’ve been especially drawn to Dupré. He balances realism with both detailed and loose brushwork, and his use of colour creates a beautiful, atmospheric quality that is difficult to replicate and is highly inspiring.