Pandora Gallery currently has an exhibition of the works of Emily Simson, an artist living near Armidale in NSW but with connections to Coolah.
Emily has selected some unique state (one of a kind) lino prints, mixed media and acrylic on board paintings to hang in the gallery. A mixture of still life and landscapes, each one is a striking statement and definitely grab your attention!
Emily states “The landscapes in this exhibition started with memories and images of trees in nature reserves or natural remnants found on the roadsides in the New England and North West areas of NSW. I am fascinated by the striking shadows of tree trunks, the glimmering light and the dark contrast speckled through the leaves.
Finding ways to describe these effects in paint, print, drawings and mixed media keeps my creative curiosity alive.
2020 meant less time on the road and more time at home, my attention shifting to the kitchen bench and the subtle play of light on arrangements of nostalgic items. Each with their own little story of acquisition, the objects are comforting and familiar.”
About her methods and technique she says “To paint I use acrylic paints on board or paper building and covering layers as the image develops. Sometimes when painting landscapes I like to work fast to keep the movement and energy in the image and other times I focus on the details and contrasts of sunlight and shadows. The prints and mixed media works have a combination of printmaking techniques, Lino cut for repeating images and monotype to capture the spontaneity of drawing.”
We have included a short slideshow below of some of Emily’s work from this exhibition. If you would like to know more about any of these artworks, please contact web@coolahnsw.com.au
Since the last time exhibiting at the Pandora Gallery, Emily’s work has been shown in Tamworth Armidale and Gunnedah along with collaborations with other artists and organisations. Participating in The Overwintering Project to promote awareness of the habitats of migratory birds, her work was shown in Mandurah WA, Coffs Harbour and Mornington Peninsula Victoria with other Printmakers.
Emily is a member of the Black Gully Printmakers in Armidale, who share printmaking skills and exhibit as a group in various venues. This includes an exhibition held at NERAM (New England Regional Art Museum) a group print show in response to the written word of Judith Wright. Their current collaboration is with the Armidale Folk Museum, members have created artist prints based around historical objects held in the museum.