Hi everyone! This is Victoria Arnold taking over for this month’s long-awaited Featured Artist article. We are proud to feature Emily Pullin as our artist for the month of October, and I got the chance to chat with her about her artistic journey, inspiration, and advice she has for other painters looking to further invest in their creative abilities.
Emily Pullin is a mixed media artist based in northern Louisiana. Finding inspiration inside of her familial ties, she creates most of her paintings from relationships and various life experiences. She describes her work as a balance between vibrant, captivating images based on a raw, organic background. You can see more of her work at: www.epullinartwork.com.
1. When did you discover your passion for painting?
I have always had an interest in the arts. I come from an artistic family so that need to create has always been there. I loved art classes as a child, which has lead to a career in creating and teaching art.
2. Why do you prefer painting over other forms or art? (Drawing, Ceramics, Photography, etc.)
I couldn’t really say.... I have experimented in other forms of art, but always find myself going back to a paintbrush or scissors! Lately, I have created more collage work which allows me to paint, cut and reconfigure (over and over again) until I like the result. My collages do still live in the same vein - a mixture of organic pattern, lines and realism.
3. What is your favorite subject is the most meaningful for you to paint?
I love painting things that have some significance in my life - whether that be a person, place or thing! I have to start with something meaningful or my work goes nowhere fast.
4. In what ways do you hope your art can inspire/influence others?
As both an artist and a teacher - I just want people to appreciate art. Art should evoke emotion - I hope my work does, at least. I hope that my work will prompt people to buy original art or create something for themselves. It can be so rewarding. I recently launched an ART+HOME collection on my website... Through these pieces, I wanted to create affordable art with a purpose.
When you purchase an ART+HOME piece, you are not only getting an original piece of artwork, but also a usable home accessory. I think it’s a great way to start or grow a collection because the pieces can be used and are great conversation starters.
5. You stated that you’ve grown as an artist exponentially. In what ways has that growth occurred? What advice do you have for other painters looking to grow in their experience as you have?
Mainly, overtime, I have become more confident in my work as an artist. When I first began painting, I never considered or referred to myself as an artist. My advice to anyone creating is this: YOU ARE AN ARTIST, keep creating.
To view more of Pullin’s artwork, you can connect with her at her website: www.epullinartwork.com or on Instagram at: @epullinartwork.