Biography

Liz Hanson was born in 1990 on the southern island of Mindanao in the Philippines, where her parents dedicated themselves to work in remote communities. Her mother, hailing from Hong Kong, relocated to the United States for her graduate studies, where she crossed paths with Liz’s father. Raised in a tropical paradise, Liz cherished her childhood days at the beach, swimming in cool spring-fed pools, and hiking to breathtaking waterfalls. To pursue her high school education, she moved to Manila, the capital located on the northern island of Luzon. During her youth, she frequently traveled to Hong Kong to visit her grandparents. It was only after completing high school that she settled permanently in America. This rich and diverse background has deeply shaped her perspective on life and how she views the world around her.

After graduating high school, Liz attended university for a year before opting to take a break. In 2011, she made the move to Colorado, and in 2012, she married. In 2017, she welcomed motherhood and decided to return to her studies full-time. It was in 2019 that she stumbled upon the sculpture program at Colorado Mesa University, where she immersed herself in the craft of sculpture, mold-making, and metal casting. In 2020, she faced the heartbreaking loss of her spouse, and in 2022, her father passed away due to Alzheimer's. These significant experiences of loss have strengthened her resolve to treasure positive memories and savor the small joys that life presents daily.

Inspired by her travels and the myriad places she has called home, Liz creates works that encapsulate memories reflective of her life experiences. Her sculptures act as a conduit for recalling cherished times, joyful moments, family gatherings, and other pivotal experiences that have shaped her. They carry a sense of whimsy and playfulness. Throughout her journey, she has encountered a vibrant tapestry of cuisines, natural wonders, cultural traditions, perspectives, and varying socioeconomic backgrounds.

In her sculptures, Liz often represents herself through penguins. While many instinctively link penguins with Antarctica and icy landscapes, the reality is that most species thrive in tropical areas like South America, South Africa, and Australia. For Liz, penguins embody adaptability and resilience—qualities she has embraced throughout her travels and life journey. These traits have empowered her to navigate the diverse experiences of both her childhood and adult life.