We recently had the chance to connect with Elizabeth Washburn and have shared our conversation below.
Elizabeth, we’re thrilled to have you with us today. Before we jump into your intro and the heart of the interview, let’s start with a bit of an ice breaker: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
Finding love in my 50s has been bringing me a lot of joy lately. Several years ago, I ended a long relationship, and in the proceeding years, spent a lot of time on my own—which I honestly enjoy, just maybe not all the time. I went on a bunch of dates that didn’t really go anywhere, and now somehow I’ve landed in the healthiest, happiest relationship I’ve ever had. Feeling really grateful.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Elizabeth Washburn, and I’ve called San Diego home for the past 25 years. Time really flies! As an artist, my work is deeply inspired by nature, light, and color. I often draw on personal memories and emotional landscapes, blending them with new techniques to create paintings that aim to evoke calm, reflection, and beauty.
Over fifteen years ago, I founded Combat Arts San Diego, a nonprofit that offers therapeutic art programs to U.S. military veterans and incarcerated youth. What began as a way to help combat veterans cope with PTSD has grown into a broader mission of using creativity as a tool for healing and empowerment. Each week, I lead art workshops inside Juvenile Hall and the VA—spaces that are often filled with pain, but also incredible resilience and transformation.
These experiences have shaped not only who I am, but also how and why I create. My art is both personal and communal—it’s about expressing what words can’t always reach and sharing that space with others who need it too.
Right now, I’m working on a new series of “Portal” paintings—imaginative scenes that mix memory, nature, and surreal architecture. They’re a visual escape, an invitation to step into something softer and more hopeful.
To make my work more accessible, I recently launched an Etsy shop: WashburnArtPrints. There, you’ll find fine art prints of my original paintings—pieces that I hope bring a bit of peace and beauty into people’s everyday spaces.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: What breaks the bonds between people—and what restores them?
That’s such a powerful question—and one I think applies to every type of relationship, whether personal, social, or political. At the root of broken bonds is usually a breakdown in communication. When people stop listening or make assumptions, distance grows. But on the flip side, humility and honest dialogue can rebuild trust. Most of us want the same core things—love, safety, belonging, and a chance to thrive. When we lead with empathy and make space to really hear each other, connection becomes possible again. And we don’t always have to agree!
What fear has held you back the most in your life?
The fear that’s held me back the most has been the fear of vulnerability. I think a lot of us feel it—no one wants to be rejected when they’re showing their truest self. For a long time, I dealt with that fear by becoming extremely independent. I figured if I did everything myself, I wouldn’t have to rely on anyone—or risk appearing weak.
But through my work as an artist and founder of a therapeutic arts nonprofit, I’ve learned that real connection requires openness. Whether I’m painting from a deeply personal place or sharing creative space with veterans and incarcerated youth, I see how healing and transformative vulnerability can be. Letting people in, showing up authentically—it’s what deepens relationships and helps us all feel more human. My art and my connections are so much richer because of it.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. Whom do you admire for their character, not their power?
I deeply admire the women in Afghanistan who, despite unimaginable risks, continue to educate young girls through underground networks. They operate with no official power—only courage, conviction, and resistance. In the face of oppression, they choose to empower the next generation with knowledge. Their bravery is humbling. By risking their lives to keep education alive, they’re planting the seeds for future change and showing that true strength lies not in authority, but in unwavering purpose.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: If you knew you had 10 years left, what would you stop doing immediately?
I really like this question. If I knew I had 10 years left, I think I’d try to stop stressing so much about things I can’t control. I’d still have to keep up with the day-to-day grind for a while—because, let’s be honest, I’d need the money—but I’d be more focused about saving and planning for a slower, more intentional life. I’d work hard for a few more years, then hopefully move somewhere peaceful, maybe outside the U.S., surrounded by nature. I’d still paint, of course, but I’d make more time for rest, beauty, and connection. And convince a few people to come with!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.WashburnFineArt.com
- Instagram: @WashburnFineArt
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-washburn-2b4680a
- Other: Etsy: https://www.etsy.com/shop/WashburnArtPrints
