ARTIST BIO
Emily Holder is an artist in Dallas, TX. She began her art journey by delivering free portraits to those who lost loved ones during COVID-19. Once realizing the role of art and how it can create different emotions, she poured herself into learning more at the University of North Texas. She incorporates traditional practices in her work such as painting and drawing but she is also an independent filmmaker who bases her films on her own artwork. Her artwork reflects many feelings and thoughts repressed from a young age to avoid conflict in every day life. This results in her artwork being described as dark comedies that influence viewers to ask themselves whether or not they should laugh or cry.
ARTIST STATEMENT
My current work features dark comedy in traditional charcoal, watercolor, and oil paintings to depict realistic encounters and revenge stories. Laughter is my defense mechanism and has been a part of my life as a way to protect myself and make it out of uncomfortable and dangerous situations. My work is encouraged to make viewers laugh until the reality of painting comes to fruition or as a way to deal with the dark nature of my artwork. My 2D paintings grow from the need to communicate feelings and thoughts that cannot be expressed in a way that is accessible and easy to understand. Art is my tool for communication. I don't have to break my head open to tell you how I feel because I have a pencil. I can put the exact images in my mind and draw them on a piece of paper. The understanding is there. It’s clear and physical. I can see it and so can viewers. It’s not some mythological thing locked in my head anymore. Audiences and people can understand the feelings and emotions on display without fear of confusion and exclusion. I strive to voice the dark creatures in our minds and to create a safe space that allows people to become uncomfortable and vulnerable.