Hello, my name is Elizabeth Dawn
Welcome to Memoirtistry
Memoirtistry is a creative storytelling method combining memoir writing and art.
It is the blending of two words, “memoir” and “artistry”; it begins with “Me” and is focused on “Memory” as the source for expression. Creative expression aids in building self-esteem and improving a writer’s unique voice.
In December 2020, I awoke to the word memoirtistry in my mouth, and was surprised when it generated zero Google results. The discovery of an original idea led me to trademark Memoirtistry, which took three years to process.
I live Memoirtistry, redefining the day-to-day with an editor’s eye, a writer’s heart, and an artist’s soul.
The practice of Memoirtistry has allowed me to interact with flashbacks, and a diagnosis of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). I aim to rewrite the stories I tell myself to unlearn patterns and behaviors developed in childhood from religious trauma (spiritual abuse). Time travel is a component of my work, with presence the ultimate goal; when I achieve presence, I am able to heal from the pain of the past and freed from worry over the future. Guided by the internal compass, I discern my work intuitively, using words, paint and symbolism as tools for self-discovery. Each creation is birthed from authentic and raw emotion; I am open, and vulnerable. The symbols began appearing to me in January 2016, “before I knew” I was an artist, and they have aided me in facing the trauma I have survived. The symbols, in order of appearance, are The White Room, The Mirror, The Body, The Eye, The Pussy, The Demon, The Alien, The Ghosts and The Phoenix.
I am regarded for my work as an editor, encouraging writers and survivors with lived experience to uncover the potential of their life stories. I utilize the methods developed within Memoirtistry and the resources I have found along the way to help individuals explore personal narratives, gain insights, and foster emotional well-being through creative storytelling.
Elizabeth Dawn (b. 1981)
She is an artist in every role; a poet, art journalist, self-published author, certified editor, skilled ghostwriter, creative writing coach, and mental health advocate certified in Pennsylvania working with Resources for Human Development as a peer support specialist.
Bibliography
I Was a Good Wife: A Self-Portrait
Liz Gurley, removed from Amazon to be republished // 12122020
The Third Dream (illustrated by T.H. Kainaros)
Elizabeth Dawn, YAWP Literary & Art ‘Zine, Issue 7 // 04192024
Sustainability and The Power of Public Art,
Travis Barkefelt, Planet Pittsburgh, Duquesne University, PA // 092024
Wick Monet Offers Art “Commentary” in Latest Publication,
Foo Conner, The Reporter, Pittsburgh, PA // 092024
The Commentary
Wick Monet, Issues One - Six // 2024/2025
I Left a Stranger: A Coming Out & Into Estrangement
Elizabeth Dawn, removed from Amazon to be republished // 12302024 (second edition)
Meet Elizabeth Dawn
CanvasRebel Magazine // 06122025
Featured in NOSH: What My Sabbatical Taught Me About Connection, One Lunch at a Time
Heather Cleary // 11242025
Contracts
Senior Ghostwriter
StoryTerrace // 052024 - present
Forensic Peer Support Specialist
Resources for Human Development (RHD), Allies Program, Pittsburgh, PA // 072025 - present
National Anthem Soloist
Integrity Fighter Management // 082023 - 102025
Exhibitions & Residencies
Featured Artist
Olyphant Art Supply, Olympia, WA // 082021
Featured Artist
Gallery BOOM!, Olympia, WA // 092021 - 102022
Featured Artist
Olympia Lamplighters Fundraising Gala, WA // 102021
Featured Artist
Harlequin Theater, Olympia, WA // 102022
Performing Artist in Residence
The Pitch on Butler, Pittsburgh, PA // 2024
Featured Artist
Trash and Treasure: Collection & Sentimentality // 042025
Internships & Mentorships
Publications Intern
Seattle International Film Festival, WA // 2019
Milan Art Institute Peer Mentor
Jessi Dahlquist, Contemporary Mixed Media // 092021 - 082022
Peer Business Coaching
Reclaiming Employment // 06302025-09262025
Podcasts
Memoirtistry, an artist’s process revealed
COMPLEX with Quincy Schmidt, Mental Health & Relationship Coach
Teaching
MasterClass with Memoirtistry: Process & Voice
FADlab, Atlanta, GA // 032023
Memoir & Artistry: Creative Storytelling
Sweetwater Center for the Arts, Sewickley, PA // 052024 - 032025
Vocational Studies
Certified Editor
University of Washington, Seattle // 2018
Mastery Program Fine Arts
Milan Art Institute, Statham, GA // 2021
Art Commentary Program
Wick Monet, Pittsburgh, PA // 2024
Compulsive Behavior Study
University of Pittsburgh, Department of Psychiatry // 2025
Certified Peer Support Specialist
Pennsylvania Certification Board // 05202025 - 05202027
Portrait for BIO/CV courtesy of Cornelius Martin