​Emily's journey into the realm of fine art is an intriguing blend of passion for both the arts and sciences. She holds formal degrees from Purdue University, specifically in Animal Science and Veterinary Technology. Her lifelong affinity for animals serves as the inspiration behind much of her art, while her scientific nature propels her to meticulously study and understand the intricate details, driving her rapid advancement in the world of fine art.
Born and raised in South Bend, IN, her childhood preferences hinted at her artistic inclinations. While most children were enchanted by colorful and whimsical toys, she found joy in toy and stuffed animals that accurately depicted the precise form and coloring of the real creatures she loved.
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Despite taking few formal art classes over the years, Emily’s artistic journey truly kicked off in 2017 when, having just moved to Winston Salem, NC, she participated in the employee art show at Atrium Wake Baptist Health. Managing a cancer research laboratory at the time, she showcased her hand-drawn pieces, winning 1st and 2nd place. However, always hungry for improvement, she began seeking more detailed education.
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Emily’s formal drawing education continued with a class in "Drawing in Color" at Forsyth Tec in late January 2020. Unfortunately, the class was cut short due to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. This turned out to be a serendipitous moment, leading her to discover online tutorials by colored pencil animal artist Bonny Snowdon in July 2020. Bonny's descriptive explanations and demonstrations became a turning point in enhancing Emily’s artistic skills.
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By January 2021, Emily had the opportunity to showcase 11 pieces in one of the galleries at Atrium Wake Baptist Health. From that point on, commissions started flowing in. In 2021, she expanded her portfolio to include pastel, and in 2022, she ventured into oil painting for the first time. These years have seen her garner several placements in statewide juried shows and secure spots in multiple galleries in the Triad region.
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Beyond the canvas, Emily finds solace in singing, a profession she’s embraced for years. She has lent her voice to weddings and funerals, and she currently sings in the Winston Salem Symphony Chorus. Her musical journey includes starting her own jazz ensemble in 2006, which enjoyed consistent bookings in the VT/NH Upper Valley region.
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In late 2023, Emily bid farewell to her career in the sciences, opting for retirement to delve deeper into the fine arts world. Now, she relishes the joy of learning intricate details about art and applying them in her creations, embracing the newfound freedom to explore her artistic passions.
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In Emily's words ...
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"I have always had a love and insight for animals (my formal degrees are in Animal Science and Veterinary Technology); therefore, they are my primary muse. Inspired by an animals’ character – especially in the eyes - I capture the emotion and communicate it through my work. Through color, patterns, and light, I create realistic, expressive portraits. My creations allow the viewer to visually feel the animals’ personality.
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I began seriously working in colored pencil in 2020, soft pastels in 2021 and my first-time painting with oils was in 2022. With little formal art training, my thirst for learning more about the mediums I use and the techniques that go with them is voracious. It is my training in the sciences that allows me to grasp the techniques quickly and in depth. My fascination with the details is the reason my style leans more toward photorealism. It is also why I especially enjoy colored pencil as it is a medium that allows for more detailed work.
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Drawing and painting, (as well as music), are extremely therapeutic and meditative for me. I easily lose myself in the moment when working on a piece. Recently retiring from my science career, I am relishing having more time to immerse myself in my art.
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My artwork can be found in both public galleries and private collections across the United States."
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