Young artist to watch in 2022
Emma Kalff, The Boogieman Is Real, oil, 12 x 12.
State in Which You Reside: Colorado.
Art Education: I studied at the New Orleans Academy of Fine Arts under founder Auseklis Ozols. It was rigorous but fulfilling classical training and, for a while, I ate, slept, and breathed painting.
Creative Spark: I get excited by deep, dark shadows against bright lights—any scene with a dramatic value range.
Best Art Advice Received: Auseklis used to say that there’s nothing you can imagine that would be more interesting or exciting than what already exists.
Pet Peeve: Being tailgated while driving.
Favorite Studio Music: I listen to music with heavy repetitive beats so that I can tap into the rhythm while painting.
Favorite Work by Another Artist: I recently found Yael Scalia’s work online and was floored. Everything she paints is raw and pure. Underneath the deceptive simplicity of her landscapes, there’s this feeling I get of the ancient history of the world. My favorite piece is CYPRESSES, THE VALLEY OF THE CROSS.
Future Goals: I’m building my resume to a point where my work will be considered to be shown in a museum. I grew up outside Philadelphia, and my mom often took me to museums in the city. Wandering through the big halls and contemplating the art affected me profoundly. I’d love for my work to become part of that tradition.
Price Range: $200 to $1,000.
Representation: www.emmakalff.com; Instagram: @emma.kalff.
To read the full list of 21 Under 31 artists for 2022, click here.
This story appeared in the August/September 2022 issue of Southwest Art magazine.