Project Mixed Media

Bio & statement

Project Mixed Media: As a means to share their vastly different styles, the visual arts collaborative Project Mixed Media was formed by Washington, DC artists Elva R. Lovoz & Prudence Bonds. By challenging ourselves to work with only a few colors, on a specific surface, using specific tools, and/or within one theme, we find inspiration and common ground by stepping outside of our comfort zones. Lip Service is about the aesthetic value and perception of the human mouth shown through the graphic starkness any two primary colors with grayscale. Each image is inspired by the pursuit of true beauty, adhering to cultural expectations, fulfilling stereotypes, and rebellion.

Elva Lovoz was born and raised in “the diamond in the rough,” the District of Columbia. She grew up within an artistic and diverse family, which strives to continue the Lovoz legacy of creativity. Elva has always involved herself in the arts in many forms and furthered her interests by pursuing a dream of painting about seven years ago. As her work progressed, Lovoz has displayed and donated her talents and time to organizations in the DC area. Known for her signature style of ‘squigglies’ -- short, curved lines that create mystery and movement throughout each composition, she jogs the imagination and invites her audience to find embedded images.

Elva’s work is rebellious, eclectic and reflects her multicultural roots, a combination of DC Folk Art, Salvadorian, Gypsy (Gitano of Spain), & Native American influences. Lovoz’s work is ever evolving and her images exhibit powerful examples of human expressions and reveal strong emotions. She hopes to change and challenge the world with her art and relate to her audiences through her paintings.

Born in Florida and raised in DC since infancy, a self-taught artist, as a teenager Prudence took courses at the Corcoran School of Art for figure drawing and photography & film development. Prudence depicts people living throughout the African Diaspora, and beyond, by using color, texture, and introspection. Since acceptable images of human concepts such as love and beauty are perpetuated through art, literature, music, and the media, her pieces echo the attempt made by people of color to redefine and re-present those concepts in their terms.