meet liza
I grew up with a photographer mum, and all her prints drying on the bathroom wall— so art-making has always been part of my life. My Dad had jobs all over the world and I’ve lived in 7 different countries, but Aotearoa New Zealand is now my permanent home.
With a fine arts degree, I’ve been fortunate to have worked as a Graphic Designer, and Educational Media Developer including on heritage sites in the UK and at Massey University. I’m now focussed on what I enjoy most: offering workshops in printmaking, and capturing people through meaningful photographic portraits. I have a love of fine art and storytelling and I enjoy bringing these together in my artmaking, teaching and photography.
My photographs and prints have been shown in exhibitions and art collections in this country and overseas. In 2025 I was delighted to receive ‘highly commended’ in the portrait category of the Asia-Pacific Photography Awards. As well as making my own work, I have a passion for supporting others to express themselves through creative workshops.
I have a soft spot for animals, an undying love for a good cup of tea, and a knack for always being prepared—whether for a creative challenge or an unexpected disaster! And if you’re nervous about picking up an etching or carving tool, or being in front of the camera, I completely understand! I promise I will do everything I can to make the experience easy, comfortable, and enjoyable for you.
MEET VIV
I’m Viv Aitken and I’m thrilled to be joining Liza as tutor for the linoprint workshops and courses at Otis Lane Studios. I have been involved in arts education in schools and universities for over 25 years, but only properly ‘discovered’ linoprinting in 2023. It quickly became an obsession, and I’ve been carving, printing, or thinking about my next print ever since! I met Liza when I attended one of her printmaking courses and I feel very lucky to have the chance to work alongside her (and Otis of course).
Meet OTIS
Yes, he is everywhere, on the props, nesting amongst the art materials, and sitting on the printing press! Otis the cat loves nothing better than to be up in a camera lens or checking out a workshop … Hence the name - Otis Lane - he’s the real boss of the studio!