Emily Earp

Printmaking, Zines, Illustration, Photography
Kansas City Art Institute 2024Artist Statement:I am interested in the ways in which we collect, preserve, observe, and depict pieces of our natural world and its history. I aim to illustrate their significance in my work, and provide the viewer with a greater appreciation of nature. I also consider the ways in which natural life can change over time. Both the past and potential futures of extinction particularly concern me.In my studio research, I study the long spanning history of scientific illustration in printed media, as well as the ways in which it has shifted over time. My current focus is on the naturalists, and the process of studying the natural world through observation. These scientists worked with both artists and printmakers to publish their findings in written word and illustration. In my case, I take on the role of researcher, artist, and printmaker while creating my work.I begin with observation: visiting zoos and aquariums, natural history museums, or simply walking outside. Through photography and sketchbooking, I am able to accumulate reference images of animals and their environments. I develop drawings of these references digitally, then translate them into hand printed artworks using silkscreen or linocut techniques. My graphic, illustrative style, bright, dreamlike colors, use of digital technology, and modern printmaking techniques distinguish my art as a contemporary perspective on the natural world.I seek to examine the ways in which animals behave, developing narrative artworks around their activities and relationships. Presenting the animals' personalities allows the viewer to form a connection with the art, as well as the animals portrayed. In this way, I hope to foster greater care and consideration for natural life, as a precious and fragile part of our world.