LEADERSHIP

Elizabeth Dupree Lynch
Founder/President/Senior Art Consultant

Founder of EDL & Associates in 1986, Elizabeth maintains the passion, inspiration and vision for this successful, WBENC minority-owned company.  Without a solid business model to replicate at EDL’s inception, Elizabeth became a pioneer in her field.  She perceived and understood the need at that time for her skills and talents of bringing together business, people, and artists in a way that was mutually beneficial for all concerned.  EDL & Associates has sustained an impeccable reputation over its nearly 30-year span due to her unmatched passion for artwork, commitment to fairness, professionalism, and enthusiasm.

Elizabeth’s business philosophy is founded on fairness to all and ensuring that each project preserves the highest achievable relevance and significance possible.  One her most remarkable skills is the ability to bring business and art together in a way that benefits everyone concerned.  Elizabeth sees herself and the company as a catalyst for change in the art industry as she seeks rewarding relationships for each person involved in every consultation.

Elizabeth’s credentials include schooling in Art History & Language at the EuroCentre School in Lausanne, Switzerland, and Art History at the Instituto Allende in San Miguel, Mexico.  Elizabeth has a passion for all things of beauty and design, and she creates this experience in every aspect of her career and lifestyle. She has traveled the world experiencing many cultures, people, and the great art and design of the world's capitals.  In addition, Elizabeth is a philanthropist and is exceedingly committed to educating the underprivileged children of the world.

Artists are most important to EDL and myself.  In this world today it is important to support the arts and cultural activities, for without them, life would not have the same meaning.  I have a profound appreciation for the beauty and meaning that the art collections EDL & Associates have created for the many people around the world that have had the opportunity to view the collections we have assembled.  To whom much is given much is expected; that is what excites me and justifies my life-long dedication to the art and culture of the world.

Vanessa Deriso
Art Consultant/Senior Project Manager

Vanessa Deriso brings seven years of experience in commercial and residential interior design along with an extensive art history background to her role as Senior Project Manager and Art Consultant at EDL & Associates.  Whether it is a major hotel brand, luxury golf resort, spa, boutique hotel, or a private collection need, Vanessa’s ability to select the perfect artwork has led to an impressive portfolio and pleased clients worldwide.  Some of her leading art consulting projects include Four Seasons - St. Petersburg, Russia, Atlantis Royal Tower Suites - Paradise Island, Bahamas, and The Hotel Hershey and Hershey Lodge – Hershey, Pennsylvania.  These world-renowned clients represent merely a fraction of her most rewarding accomplishments and provide an opportunity for her to showcase her passion, outstanding service, and desire for customer satisfaction.

Vanessa’s credentials include a Bachelor of Arts degree in Interior Design from the Art Institute of Atlanta as well as previously holding the position of Senior Designer for Image Design, Inc.  She is a Chapter Business Courtesy Member of NEWH (The Hospitality Industry Network), a member of the National Association of Professional Women, and represents EDL as a member of the WBENC.  In her leisure, Vanessa cherishes time with her beautiful Greyhound rescues and enjoys spending time near the coast.  She also loves experimenting with recipes and creating delicious cuisine.

"I believe that artwork inspires the mood and offers a sense of completeness to a space.  Therefore, my approach has always focused on cohesiveness to a design.  To me, selecting artwork is a source of great inspiration and joy in my life.  I feel that my strength is my passion for the challenge: finding the artwork that completes the space, inspires the viewer, and satisfies the client.  From projects that are difficult and complex to the simple and pleasant, I gladly welcome unique opportunities."

Laura Pittman
Art Consultant/Project Manager

As a skilled interior designer and third-generation artist, only someone like Laura possesses the style and extraordinary ability to multitask the entire artwork program from inception to final installation. Whether she is researching acquisitions, organizing vendor bids and documentation, or forging relationships with artists, galleries, libraries and auction houses around the world, her enthusiasm and dedication elevate EDL well above the competition.

Laura’s credentials include a Bachelors of Fine Arts in Interior Design from the Lamar Dodd School of Art at the University of Georgia.  When she is not providing unrivaled dedication to our clients, she may be found mastering an encaustic painting or pottery class, volunteering at an animal shelter, or tackling her most difficult challenge yet: learning to cook.

"Art is a personal expression that inspires the viewer; it conveys passion, creativity and uniqueness.  To me, art is life.  Being a third-generation artist, I was exposed to art at a very young age, so I cannot imagine life without the ability to create.  Art completes the feel, mood, and aura of a space; without it, the space would be empty, dull, and bland.

What I love most about my job is the fact that art is ever evolving.  From researching the latest printing techniques, to discovering the newest medium of artwork, to following the latest frame trends keeps my heart racing.  The possibilities are endless and ever changing."

Micki Little
Business Manager/ Bookkeeper

Micki has worked with EDL for more than 15 years as a business manager.  She has more than 40 years of experience in accounting and management and is a native of the Atlanta area.