Featured Maker: Emma Studd
Featured Maker: Emma Studd
20th July - 10th September, Retail Gallery
The core of my recent work is anchored in the exploration of one shape, the hexagon. Singularly, the hexagon is still, flat, complete. When multiplied, overlaid, varied in colour and opacity, it presents an infinite realm of possibilities. It morphs and disguises itself amongst other forms. It creates movement, rhythm, and illusion, connecting with others to resemble cubes. I’m constantly experimenting with this shape and experimenting with various colour and pattern combinations.
The language of colour is something I’m fascinated with. I instinctively use certain colours which harmonise or contrast together. Through screen-printing I’ve learnt the importance of transparency of colour within my prints. How varied colour value and opacity of ink impacts on the hexagon motifs and how they will interact when placed over each other on the page. The use of neon and metallic colours also ensures my work is more handmade and not something easily recreated as a digital image.
I work in a methodical way; striving for accuracy and seeking alignment and order. I apply a mathematical approach finding inspiration from geometry and Op Art. I appreciate the connections between shapes, how they tessellate together to create infinite patterns. I’m constantly making decisions working instinctively and allowing the process to define the outcome. I adapt spontaneously to what is happening on the page, trying to find the balance of many opposing factors: colour and tone are very important in order to create the illusion of cubes. Lots of intuitive choices are made about where next to place a colour after each one has been laid. The possibilities appear limitless and within a series of work the compositions all vary while the colours stay the same.
I have a degree in Textile Design and a PGCE in Art and Design. I've been teaching Art and Textiles for 15 years and have recently completed an MA in Multi-Disciplinary Printmaking at UWE in Bristol. I’m currently a member of Spike Print Studio.
