EDMONTON, AB | A multidisciplinary artist based in Treaty 6 Territory, Emily received a BA in English and a Diploma in Fine Arts from MacEwan University. Her practice is largely abstract and colourful. She uses bright colours and playful forms as a way of luring folks into her work. Viewers may first see friendly shapes, but with a closer look, will find themes of social anxiety, isolation (and togetherness), family trauma and the body. Emily works in a variety of mediums and is passionate about finding new forms to communicate her concepts.
You might just see Emily during your next visit to the AGA - she is one of our talented Gallery Attendants!
Meet the Artist
Tell us about the process.
I am often inspired by retro decor (especially mid-century designs), and nature. I usually have a colour palette and design in mind before I start working. If I don’t have the exact colour I’m looking for, I will mix colours using my pasta maker. I then roll the clay out using an acrylic roller (looks like a rolling pin) and depth guides. Depth guides assist in making the clay slab as level as possible. I then add to the slab or go straight to cutting out shapes using clay cutters. Before baking the clay, I add holes (using smaller clay cutters) that will allow me to later combine clay pieces using jump hoops. After the clay is baked and cooled I shave down the sides of each clay piece using a file, which ensures a comfortable fit and assists in assembly. I then assemble the various pieces using pliers and jump hoops (if needed). Earring posts are then attached using more clay and liquid clay and are rebaked.
