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Equally, in Mexico, clay is a material in abundance and villagers throughout the country shape it into utilitarian vessels, as well as figurines, whistles, and animals which are then painted to represent the look of life in their village. Other cultures shape wood into tools, bowls, figures, whistles, and dolls to represent life in their village, their country, their life. For the curious, folk art is akin to cultural forensics: in studying it one learns about evolution of cultures, the forging of trade routes, technological advances, colonization, rebellion and more. Folk art is beguiling and charming because it is imbued with the soul of maker and represents their conversation with the world. It is rarely precious, but instead accessible and understandable to all.
Returning to Emma now.
Creative people are wild at heart, and most cannot be corralled for long. This was certainly the case for Emma Carlow. After a very
successful career designing products for
others, she struck out on her own and developed a line of wallpaper and soft goods featuring her iconic modernist folk art inspired style.
The products enjoyed commercial success, but Emma realized she wanted more creative freedom and to focus her energy into projects meaningful to her. About her artistic practice Emma says: “it provides a lens through which I can look and make sense of the world.”
Above:
Emma's World
Right:
Playroom
Soft goods & Wallpaper
Photos Courtesy of:
Graham Carlow
Emma's World - Video
(Click image to play)