Educated as a writer and musician, Elizabeth Lewis' life changed course when a car accident left her temporarily paralyzed, with short term memory loss and other cognitive deficits. After three years of intense physical, occupational and speech rehabilitative therapies, her medical team determined it was unlikely she would ever function beyond a sixth grade level again. Although her medical diagnosis was bleak, Elizabeth chose to draw her future with brighter colors. By engaging in the process of art-making and writing, Elizabeth came to realize that there can be great healing without cure. Art and writing helped transform her sense of loss into one of abundance and gratitude. Ultimately, she came to embrace the gifts, opportunities and purpose presented by her accident and unplanned life.
Over a period of 13 years, Elizabeth worked as a newspaper reporter, magazine writer, editor, ghost writer, business development consultant, non-profit fund-raiser, employee trainer, public relations and marketing professional and personal fitness coach.
Since 1999, Elizabeth's art works have been exhibited throughout Wisconsin and nationally in museums, galleries and juried shows. She currently presents motivational/inspirational talks, workshops, programs and retreats on the healing power of art, the healing power of writing and words, accessing creativity, stress management and more to colleges, healthcare facilities, businesses, community, social and religious organizations and artist's guilds.
A resident of Mequon, Wisconsin, Elizabeth travels nationally and internationally to lecture and teach. She is a member of the Milwaukee Art Quilters, Cedarburg Artist's Guild, Threaded Metaphors, Wisconsin Fellowship of Poets and Poet's Ink.
Elizabeth received stress management training and certification through Horizons Stress Management Program, where she is currently an instructor. She received additional training in Capacitar trauma healing, which incorporates body-mind-spirit practices from across the world. In 2010, she receied certification in Franciscan Studies form Cardinal Stritch University, Milwaukee.
