AWARDED
High School Merit Scolarship
June 2020
I like to create a sense of lightheartedness and imagination in my art. When choosing a subject matter or deciding what to paint, even if I choose people or things that exist realistically, I aim to depict them in a whimsical and reminiscent light. By using illustrative styles, similar to those used in children’s literature, I strive to prevent my work from becoming to heavy. While I do find that creating and viewing art which expresses inner turmoil or emotional heaviness provides great relief and personal gratification, I typically see my best work come out of lighthearted topics that make me happy. After all, the only thing I personally ask for in art is happiness.
As important as it is for the world to have art that represents brokenness, it is equally important for the world to have art that is simply fun. I find myself as an artist often slipping into the common belief that everything I create must have a deeper meaning, that it must be dark and perplexing in order to be worthy of being good.
However, this is a very dangerous misconception, for it can quickly rob the joy from creating altogether. I look to create emotionally sophisticated art when self expression is needed, and I bask in the relief that comes with such a release, but I also focus strongly on only doing so when necessary, so as to avoid becoming performative.
Emma Broyles
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