Artist Statement:
I explore transitional periods in adulthood, focusing on the often uncharted territory of solitude for the first time. This solo exhibition reflects on the emotional landscape of stepping into a new phase of life where independence and self-discovery become paramount. Through a series of evocative works, I delve into the nuances of isolation and the process of forging a new identity amidst change. Each piece serves as a visual narrative, capturing the introspective journey of navigating solitude, embracing uncertainty, and finding strength in self-reliance. “Thresholds” is an invitation to witness and contemplate the transformative power of being alone and the personal evolution it inspires.
I’ve been using natural dyes in this body of work which I haven’t done before. I really enjoy the process of creating the dyes and finding different materials to create them. It adds a whole different element to the works. So much preparation and work has to happen even before you start to paint. And knowing exactly where a colour came from makes me feel more connected to the work. I’ve always loved making my own stretcher bars so making my own pigments has always been something I’ve wanted to do. While I was on residency at the Corridor Project in Cowra, Wiradjuri Country I was able to experiment with natural dying processes which I then took back to my studio in the city.
- Words by Emily Ebbs
CATALOGUE //
EMILY EBBS / CATALOGUE
‘THRESHOLDS’ . SEPTEMBER 2024
EMILY EBBS
EMILY EBBS
Emily Ebbs is based and practising on Gadigal Land. On behalf of the gallery we are thrilled to announce Ebbs Second solo exhibition with HAKE, on the 20th September 2024. Emily’s first solo exhibition with HAKE was in January 2023. Emily recently won the Tweed Regional Gallery and Margaret Olly Art Centre Nancy Fairfax (AIR) award, 2022. Ebbs also won the Prix Yves Hernot painting award, 2022.
To receive more information on Emily Ebbs solo exhibition and catalogue please reach out.
Artist Statement
Emily Ebbs’ process based practice evokes the emotional residue of trauma. She focuses on the idea of the stain. The stain shows signs of something marked or discoloured that is difficult to remove where she finds it is closely linked to the idea of trauma. It is in the staining of materials, the tearing up of unfinished or unwanted works and stitching them together with new fabric that make up her process. Her work is a way of reflecting on her past experiences where art making can aid in recovering from trauma.
All enquiries can be sent to hello@hake.house
Images captured by @t0ni__t
STOCKROOM
PREVIOUSLY WITH HAKE, HOUSE
‘RESIDUE’
JANUARY, 2023.
An exhibition created after finishing her Masters Degree at the National Art School in late 2022, this body of work showcases Emily’s process of concluding a dense investigation of trauma in contemporary painting.
The title of this show alludes to the notion of what remains after trauma, whether that be a physical scar, or a psychological stain. In exploring this kind of trauma residue, Emily uses pigments to stain her works in order to establish a metaphorical connection to what may be considered a mark of trauma. Her use of soft and comforting fabrics, such as muslin and linen, also contribute to the metaphorical connection of trauma and these works. As these soothing and supportive fabrics often provide sensorial comfort to assist in the aftermath of trauma.
Residue is further explored in her process within her materiality, whereby a finished painting may be a pieced together amalgamation of past paintings. In this way all her works, both past and present, are connected.