self portrait 002. October 2017. 35mm film.
Emma Chadwick (she/her) is a multimedia artist located in East Hartford, Connecticut.
Artist Statement
I create art because I have to. I am compelled by something larger than myself to use my hands and craft my visions into reality. I am particular, methodical, measured. I use whatever medium fits me best, from cardboard to wood to clay to paint to cloth to dye. I wield my camera with intention, to allow my subject to be captured the way I see them: natural grace and beauty. The subject of my photograph and I build a relationship in which I can truly see them, and capture this kind of intimacy with permission and respect. The openness between us is visible. Trust allows beauty to blossom in front of me.
When I make art I see a reflection of myself in it. Personal memories and connections are found in every flower petal and curve of a wing. I understand myself better through creation; I want to be known. In mixed media and installation work I explore themes of intense loneliness. Ironically enough, making work about loneliness connects me to my viewer. We are no longer alone with this feeling. The way I grew up has built a visual language that I refer back to constantly, and there are metaphors and allegories in every symbol I choose to include. Work has more meaning when I show myself through it. I share my history in the objects I choose to collage with or the portraits I hand carve. My hands shake as I let go of these secrets I hold in my heart. I have learned to grieve through creation.