Episode 262 - Emily Joyce

Emily Joyce creates nostalgic and sentimental works of wearable art and sculpture about her love of all things related to the school experience. Her pieces are unique, one of a kind, and all made by Emily in her home studio. 

Many sources of inspiration are from visiting playgrounds, reminiscing about teaching and learning, and found tools and documents at Antique stores. She gets warm and fuzzy over "kid writing." She collects tools, and school supplies. 

Emily realizes that her work is different from the ordinary. She wants her work to speak to people on a personal level, and evoke a feeling or a memory. Many of the themes revolve around the subject of school. She realizes school may bring people feelings of joy or pain, or anxiety, and she is here for it. Emily struggled in school herself, and thinks about school a lot as her kids are all of elementary school age. 

The materials Emily uses to create are metal and enamel. Enamel has a rich history that dates back to the early 9th century. Many times, she recommends people check out the reliquaries from the Byzantine Era at their own Art Museum to see some pieces that inspired her to learn the art. Enamel is powdered glass fused to metal. It is finicky and fragile, and comes in a variety of colors and techniques. Although she knows many processes in enamel, Emily is always drawn to champlevé, drawing and exploring unique ways to apply enamel.

You can follow along with Emily on her Website and Instagram.