Art intertwined

Ink paintings that encapsulate the energy of the sea.

Emily Penfold is a British multidisciplinary artist who graduated from Central Saint Martins in 2018. Within her practise, Emily explores the fragility of life, celebrating its internal magic in all its forms. She aims to challenge people to find light and positivity in the dark and is particularly inspired by views of life as a cycle rather than a linear journey. No end. Just beginnings. Emily creates work that is beautiful yet thought provoking.

Her series of exquisite original drawings in graphite, pen and ink emerged following a haunting trip to the Killing Fields in Cambodia. Through these drawings, she explores a subject that is both personal and universal. The juxtaposition of the human skulls against vibrant colours as powerful representations of life creates a sinister yet hopeful vision exploring our own human impression and everlasting presence, our soul as a timeless essence.

In her more recent work, Emily delves into the fragile dimensions of sea-life, exploring the delicacy of what lies beneath the surface. Inspired by this powerful force of nature, the infinite water of the sea evokes an unequivocal sense of both fear and calm. Something that can make you feel so fragile and alive all at once. 

Jellyfish have the power to simultaneously instil wonder and fear – their sting being like an electric shock, a spark of nature’s energy. Just as these creatures can mesmerise, Emily’s light pieces do the same! She uses light and bold colours to highlight the hypnotic beauty of these translucent bundles of energy, like a ‘ghost heart’ pulsating through the water.

Emily will be exhibiting next in Cornwall at Rock Institute alongside Martyn Dempsey and fellow creatives Emily O’Brien, Tash Owen, Gemma Messenger, Paul Lock, Sian Burridge and Bernice Edgley, showcasing their work in an upcoming exhibition called Contemporaries. Running from 19th until 23rd October, the show promises to deliver an exciting and eclectic range of fine art, craft and design. 

EMILY PENFOLD
eompenfold@hotmail.com

www.emilypenfold.com