Emily Royer

Lives and works in Philadelphia, PA, USA

Artist statement

The images you see here are derived from recollections of the real and tangible world, but filtered through emotional memory. Moments, locations, and small details are re-arranged with a disregard for linear time. Special attention is paid to feelings held in a body, in a gesture, or a touch. Strong light sources, both natural and electric have become an important element in the work, an eerie yet beautiful illumination of form and feeling. Moving through a quiet and comforting solitude towards deeper introspection, the upheaval of “normal” life that began during 2020 caused a waking of dormant questions about my sense of self, both internally and as a social being in the world. Fixing the gaze upon my past iterations, I say hello and try to welcome their presences without judgment or fear. I see that much of what was frightening also contains humor. I see that much of what appeared ugly was a mirage created by external pressures. This work is about moving through the past, in order to come closer to being a whole and integrated self. To be able to return to the world with heart and hand more open.

Artwork