EPISODE FOURTEEN: Emily Parker
Embracing the Intersection of Art and Community: A Conversation with Emily Parker
Welcome to the Art of Making Art podcast, where we delve into the romance and reality of artist studios and their practices. I’m Christina Lowry, a visual artist based in Logan, Brisbane, and today I had a fascinating conversation with Emily Parker—an artist, gallery owner, and a driving force behind Parker Contemporary. Our chat explored not only Emily's personal journey in the art world but also offered insights into the processes and dynamics of being an artist and a gallery director.
Emily describes her evolving journey into art, crediting her long tenure at the Queensland College of Art and Design as integral to her growth. Her unique approach combines traditional techniques with modern materials, emphasizing the importance of materiality and transference in her work. Emily’s story of exploring stone lithography and artist books reflects a deep commitment to both experimentation and the heritage of art forms.
Reflecting on her upbringing, Emily attributes much of her creative inclinations to the influence of her family, notably her mother, an art teacher, and her grandmother, an aspiring artist turned teacher. This rich familial background in education and art planted the seeds for Emily's creative path, leading her through a unique trajectory in the performing arts before embarking on her visual arts journey at the Paris College of Art. This diverse experience eventually culminated in the founding of Parker Contemporary. ### The Leap into Gallery Ownership Transitioning from an academic and artistic environment into gallery ownership seemed daunting at first. However, Emily's extensive academic background, combined with her practical experience in business and creative arts, provided her with the tools necessary to succeed. Her gallery focuses on contemporary art with a niche in printmaking and papermaking, creating a platform for both emerging and established Brisbane artists.
At Parker Contemporary, Emily curates a blend of the city's vibrant talent while facilitating a broader dialogue about art and community. She emphasizes the value of networking and collaboration, underscoring how artists can contribute to community building through shared experiences and opportunities. The gallery serves as a testament to how one’s creative life feeds into community dynamics and offers a space for both personal growth and public engagement.
Emily shared invaluable advice for budding artists, urging them to immerse themselves in their educational experiences and explore the diversity of the art world. She emphasized developing strong networks and not shying away from taking risks or asking for guidance. For those interested in gallery management, Emily advises identifying gaps in the current art space offerings and finding unique ways to address them.
My conversation with Emily Parker encapsulated the essence of finding one’s path in the art world—an intricate weave of personal history, education, and creative exploration. Emily's experiences and insights offer a compelling narrative about the power of art to shape and inspire communities, reinforcing the importance of authenticity and community engagement in creative pursuits. If you'd like to learn more about the artists featured at Parker Contemporary or immerse yourself further in contemporary art discussions, I encourage you to explore local galleries, attend talks, and delve into the creative community around you. Stay tuned for more insightful discussions on the Art of Making Art podcast, as we continue to explore the diverse experiences and stories within the art world.
Take care and see you next week.
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www.emilyparker.com.au/
www.instagram.com/emilyparker.art/
www.parkercontemporary.com.au/
www.instagram.com/parkercontemporaryau/
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