Emily Mullet is a mixed-media artist based in Phoenixville, PA. She received a Bachelor of Arts in Studio Art, with an emphasis on Painting and Graphic Design, from the College of the Ozarks in 2012. Her work explores her interest in floral imagery and the female form, using printmaking techniques. Much of Emily’s art is influenced by contemporary street artists, drawing inspiration from aerosol paints, stencils, and wheat pastes. Emily completed an apprenticeship at the Moravian Pottery and Tile Works and has been featured by PxP Contemporary, the Arts to Hearts Project, Grace Go Bloom, SHOWFIELDS, and CandyFloss Magazine.
In her current collection, Concrete Mind Blooms, Emily created a body of work that resembles abandoned architecture, conceptually exploring the theme of returning to one's past self.
Shop original work by Emily through PxP Contemporary.
What inspired the creation of your work featured in the 'Chroma' exhibition?
I've always been captivated by decaying structures. As their surface layers vanish, I enjoy observing which parts endure. I am equally intrigued by the bold graffiti that begins to surface, as well as nature's gradual reclamation. These buildings, to me, exude a sense of worlds colliding. The past, present, and future all convene in one spot. When creating my piece for "Chroma," I sought to depict both endurance and evolution, akin to an abandoned building.
Could you offer some insights into your creative process?
New explorations are my primary source of inspiration. I lean towards slightly unpredictable outcomes and relish the difference between my final piece and my initial concept. Consequently, I'm always experimenting. My recent work with concrete as a canvas is still novel to me, but I am able to draw upon my extensive experience with resin. Similar to resin, my creation process involves layering. I start by establishing the piece's foundation and any engaging background textures. From there, my focus shifts solely to the subject matter. Lastly, I consider the final accents of grunge and paint splatters. Throughout the entire process, I continually build up and pare down the piece until it feels like it has existed for decades.
From where do you draw inspiration for your color choices?
A striking—almost neon—mint green is one of the most vibrant colors in this piece. In Pennsylvania where I reside, mint green is a prevalent accent color on old farmhouses. Despite growing up around this distinct hue, I found its boldness perplexing. Naturally, I am now enthralled with it and have incorporated it prominently in my piece for "Chroma."
How does your medium of choice enhance your depiction of color in your artwork?
Working on the dull gray of concrete is intriguing because it amplifies any color applied. I believe this is part of why I am drawn to street art and graffiti. The stark contrast between the rough gray surfaces and bright spray paint renders the color bursts even more striking and impactful.
What should viewers and collectors bear in mind when interacting with your art?
Above all, I wish for viewers to see themselves reflected in my work. Whether metaphorically or literally, I want them to recall forgotten places from their own lives. I aspire for them to be moved to revisit different versions of themselves and emerge with a newfound appreciation for their personal history.
What are your current projects and what are you looking forward to this season?
I've been experimenting with concrete for over a year now, but I feel like I'm only just beginning. The material has so much to offer in terms of visual and conceptual expression. I eagerly anticipate my evolution as an artist with this medium.
