Article by: Sam Crenshaw
In 2022, poet and artist Elizabeth TenHouten unveiled The Stars Fell into the Ocean, a poignant collection of poetry that explores the depth of heartbreak, the beauty of the natural world, and the transformative power of love. Each poem is accompanied by a striking black-and-white photograph of TenHouten herself, blending literary and visual art to create an immersive experience. The collection has been well received, garnering praise from readers and recognition from literary platforms such as the Dark Poets Club. As an artist dedicated to capturing beauty in all its forms, TenHouten’s debut poetry book is a testament to her lifelong creative journey.
Men and women alike can resonate with the raw emotions expressed in The Stars Fell into the Ocean. Poems such as “Love Flies Away” take readers through a deeply personal yet universal journey of sorrow, catharsis, and renewal. Other pieces celebrate the majesty of nature, echoing the traditions of the Romantic poets. The book’s evocative imagery and artistic presentation have made it a popular choice as a coffee table book, blending aesthetic appeal with literary depth.
A Life Rooted in Creativity
Elizabeth TenHouten is a multifaceted talent, recognized internationally as a poet, model, beauty expert, author, and musician. She previously founded and led BeautyRich Skincare, a brand that reflected her deep knowledge of beauty and wellness. Her passion for poetry, however, dates back to her childhood in Laurel Canyon, Los Angeles—a neighborhood renowned for its vibrant artistic culture since the countercultural movements of the 1960s and ‘70s. By the age of ten, she had developed a keen interest in poetry, memorizing and analyzing classic works, and by sixteen, she had filled countless notebooks with her own verses.
During her academic years, she was honored with The Sterling Scholar Award in English. She later pursued a degree in philosophy at Loyola Marymount University before establishing herself as a writer and editor. TenHouten served as the Editor-in-Chief for Celeb Staff and Celeb Life magazines and authored bestselling books such as Natural Beauty: Homemade Recipes for Radiant Skin and Hair and Cooking Well: Beautiful Skin. Despite her achievements in non-fiction, poetry remained her greatest artistic love.
Expanding Artistic Horizons Through Music
Beyond poetry, TenHouten has also embraced music as a means of storytelling and self-expression. Her musical journey began in childhood, playing guitar and singing in a cover band with friends. In 2016, she reignited her passion for music, taking lessons to refine her craft and begin composing her own work. Inspired by ‘90s alternative and grunge bands like Pearl Jam, Alice in Chains, Nirvana, Portishead, Jane’s Addiction, and Radiohead, she developed a distinct sound characterized by emotive lyrics and guitar-driven melodies.
Her debut album, Broken, released in 2020, was a collaboration with British composer and songwriter Andrew Raiher. Much like her poetry, her songs explore themes of heartbreak and healing. In 2023, she released a music video for her single “Broken Dreams,” an emotional portrayal of a broken engagement, infused with nostalgic, retro aesthetics.
Looking Ahead: New Projects in Poetry and Music
TenHouten released her second album, Dream, in September 2024. She is currently working on her new poetry collection set for release in 2025. While continuing to explore her creative passions, she remains a sought-after beauty expert, frequently speaking at events and sharing her insights on skincare and wellness. Whether through poetry, photography, or music, Elizabeth TenHouten is committed to capturing the essence of love, loss, and beauty in all its forms—ensuring her art remains as timeless as the emotions it evokes.
