Jan 2

Jan 2 Artist Spotlight - Samantha Louise Emery

Contemporary Art, Mixed Media, Photography

Biography

Samantha Louise Emery is an interdisciplinary artist from England and Canada living in Türkiye. Emery’s exploration of humanity’s complex interconnection within the biodiversity of life has been aided by her residence in these countries.

IKONA | Warrior Way _ Ilyra 2024 printed raw nature self portrait photography, embroidery with beards and sequins, handcrafted wooden framing 40 x 50 cm

She visually maps these networks through conceptual abstract paintings and her practice of combining self portrait photography, hand and machine embroidery with hand sewn sequins and beads, and paintwork onto canvas.

IKONA | Warrior Way _ Aquessa 2024 printed raw nature self portrait photography, embroidery with beards and sequins, handcrafted wooden framing 40 x 50 cm

Visual activism representing the positive powers of women is central to her practise, with the artist acting as a conduit in channelling the multiple feminine layers into her artworks. Emery depicts these influences in her IKONA project dedicated to the fertile woman energy that inspires her journey as a female creative.

IKONA | Warrior Way _ Saphina 2024 printed raw nature self portrait photography, embroidery with beards and sequins, handcrafted wooden framing 40 x 50 cm

Her visual activism is not only to promote an appreciation for the significant qualities of women but to contribute consciously to our global society. Emery donates 10% of proceeds from her IKONA collections to a variety of global charities.

IKONA | Warrior Way _ Veloura 2024 printed raw nature self portrait photography, embroidery with beards and sequins, handcrafted wooden framing 40 x 50 cm

Artist Statement

IKONA | Warrior Way
In a realm woven with myth and mystery, a woman walks the sacred path of the warrior, guided by courage, awakened through self discovery and bound by a vow to uphold the ancient light of basic goodness. In her journey, she reveals that true heroism is the art of honouring the divine spark within all beings.

IKONA | Warrior Way _ Elaria 2024 printed raw nature self portrait photography, embroidery with beards and sequins, handcrafted wooden framing 40 x 50 cm

IKONA | Warrior Way is a sacred journey of feminine power, guided by ancestral wisdom, elemental forces and the courage to face one's truth. Each portrait in this series embodies a woman warrior, grounded, graceful and fiercely loving, honouring the path of inner growth, connection to nature and global awareness. It is a visual meditation on strength through softness and boldness through compassion.