Elizabeth Laul Healey, an American artist who creates artwork reflecting her commitment to social activism, is preparing to debut her latest exhibition at the SD Art Advisory & Gallery. This collection explores the interplay between art, politics, and human rights, creating a platform for thought and conversation.
Growing up in Laguna Beach and later living in San Diego and North Carolina, Healey’s artistic journey has been deeply influenced by her upbringing. Her mother, Dr. Karen Lundegaard, championed human rights and women’s empowerment, while her father, Virgil Laul, brought with him the resilience and narratives of an Estonian immigrant. These experiences have shaped Healey’s artistic voice, driving her to highlight the struggles of marginalized communities and challenge societal conventions. Her work extends beyond visual appeal, offering sharp critiques of systemic inequities while addressing themes that deeply connect to the human experience.
Lucca: The Positivity Watch Dog
One of Healey’s standout works, Lucca the Positivity Watch Dog, is an eight-foot-tall sculpture designed to inspire positivity and connection. Created with reflective glass mirrors, Italian tiles, and an assortment of rocks and stones, Lucca shimmers in sunlight, transforming his appearance throughout the day.
At first glance, Lucca feels whimsical, but there’s a deeper layer of symbolism woven into his design. Around his neck, a watch collar is set to 11:11, a time associated with global unity and oneness. The circular motifs on the collar echo the cycle of life, serving as a reminder to cherish loved ones and live meaningfully.
Healey envisions Lucca as more than just a sculpture. He’s a statement of protection, love, and positivity, embodying her commitment to spreading hope and unity through her work. Whether placed in a garden, outside a modern building, or even within a home, Lucca serves as a centerpiece with a message of connection and care.
Currently available at Imago Galleries in Palm Desert, California, Lucca is listed for $150,000. For collectors seeking something personal, Healey also offers private commissions, working with clients to create custom pieces. Inquiries can be made through her website, www.ElizabethLaulHealey.com, or by phone at (310) 488-1834.
Paloma: The Peace Goddess
Another signature work by Healey is Paloma the Peace Goddess, a nine-foot-four-inch statue that embodies women’s empowerment and the universal yearning for peace. Designed to be displayed indoors or outdoors, Paloma radiates strength and serenity, encouraging reflection on the values of unity and equality.
The back of the sculpture carries the phrase “Imagine Peace,” emphasizing its message of hope and possibility. Healey’s choice of the name “Paloma,” meaning dove in Spanish, reinforces the piece’s connection to peace and freedom.
Healey describes Paloma as a celebration of empowerment. It’s a reminder of the importance of imagining a better world and the strength that comes from collective action. Like Lucca, Paloma blends visual beauty with a meaningful message, creating a work of art that inspires conversation and introspection.
For more details about Paloma, collectors can visit Healey’s website, where she provides additional information about the piece and her process.
A Vision Rooted in Advocacy
Healey’s sculptures are more than artistic statements—they are reflections of her deeply held values and personal journey. Influenced by her parents’ advocacy and her own life experiences, Healey’s art serves as a call to action, urging viewers to think critically about issues of equity, justice, and human connection.
Both Lucca and Paloma demonstrate her ability to combine intricate craftsmanship with powerful themes. Whether it’s the reflective surfaces of Lucca catching the light or the commanding presence of Paloma, Healey’s work engages the viewer on multiple levels. These sculptures are as much about their messages as they are about their physical forms, blending beauty and meaning seamlessly.
For Healey, art is a tool for change—a way to challenge norms, advocate for marginalized voices, and inspire hope. Her work encourages us to imagine a world that values connection, fairness, and peace. Through her creations, Healey reminds us that art is not only a reflection of the world but a catalyst for a better one.
