ARTIST PROFILE – EMMETT CASLEY
The popular Guildford Arts Annual Summer Art Exhibition returns to the historic riverside Mill Studio, next to the Yvonne Arnaud Theatre in the heart of the town this July. Throughout the week we’ve been chatting to featured artists whose work will be appearing at the exhibition; today’s artist is Emmett Casley…
Can you describe your creative process?
I have primarily worked as a printmaker but have expanded my practice in the last year or so to work in inks, some painting and sculpture. I often use my own photography as a primary source, then develop from those images and my experiences when in my studio. I am trying to overcome my discomfort with work ‘en plein air’ but it does not come naturally to me.
Where have you found inspiration in the last year?
I am often inspired by Modernist or Brutalist architecture, civil engineering, steelwork, rock formations. Recently I have been considering the use of landscapes and environments by different groups and species. Our connection with our envronment is becoming an increasingly strong theme in my work
Do you find your art works develop/evolve from your original intentions?
Having previously been very controlling of each image I’ve worked on, working one at a time, I now try to expand on an idea in different ways, pursueing different ideas and tangents as I go. Sometimes the direction for one work becomes clear whilst its in my periphery, as I work on another.
Has the pandemic changed anything about your creative process?
I have missed the interaction with people, being able to share space and ideas. Being able to talk about work with other artists is a bigger part of my process than I had appreciated. Its good to be back. The isolation of lockdown did seem to free me up to experiment more though – I think I had a sense of having more time.
What is the best thing about able to exhibit live again?
Sharing work with people, having the opportunity to discuss and share ideas with people. Getting real feedback and other people’s interpretations of your work is invaluable.
WHAT? GUILDFORD ARTS SUMMER EXHIBITION
WHERE? THE MILL STUDIO, YVONNE ARNAUD THEATRE
WHEN? 10 – 22 JULY 2021 / MON-SAT 10AM – 4PM
Admission to Guildford Arts Summer Exhibition is free, but Covid-care procedures require a ticket, which is available in advance or on-line at the door from www.yvonne-arnaud.co.uk