UK-based Emily Kirby is a painter celebrated for her abstract contemporary art, which often portrays figures in domestic scenes and natural landscapes. Having lived in different countries, including Zambia, Spain and New Zealand, her works conveys a profound sense of place and environment.
The artist’s African-inspired art embodies a deep connection to the landscapes and cultural motifs she frequently revisits, creating a visual language that reflects her sensitivity to the places that have shaped her identity.
Emily Kirby’s Artistic Journey and African Inspirations
Born into a family of artists in Zambia, Emily Kirby spent her early childhood immersed in the vibrant landscapes and rich cultural traditions of Africa. These formative experiences deeply influence her artistic vision, with her colour palette and themes reflecting the earthy tones and dynamic environments of her upbringing.
Kirby’s paintings serve as a medium to explore themes of identity and humanity’s relationship with the natural world. Her African heritage is a recurring source of inspiration, shaping the emotional and symbolic depth of her work.
Exploring Emily Kirby’s Bold and Abstract Style
Emily Kirby’s paintings are an exploration in colour and form. She uses combinations of layered block colours to form her, often sculptural, subjects. Her bold colour art and experimental attitude to abstraction allows the viewer to engage with the raw and authentic energy of the subjects. The figures in Kirby’s portrait paintings appear to emerge from the canvas, inviting viewers to interpret the emotional resonance within each piece.
By integrating contemporary techniques with African influences, the artist offers a unique perspective. Emily Kirby’s paintings retain a modern sensibility, with her approach to colour reflecting the Fauvist movement. Natural skin tones are highlighted by unexpected colours, creating a striking contrast that enhances the psychological depth of her portraits. This fusion of modern abstraction and vibrant, culturally rooted colours gives her work a distinctive contemporary edge.
One notable example is Studio Visit (2024), an acrylic on wood canvas. The carefully modelled contemplative face is offset by a shock of pink hair which draws the viewer in, evoking the sitter’s personality.
Notable Exhibitions and Contemporary Art Contributions
Emily Kirby’s paintings have been showcased in international exhibitions across London, Lusaka, Dubai, New York, Prague, and Valladolid. Her participation in key art fairs and exhibitions underscores her growing global presence and recognition.
The artist’s growing prominence in the contemporary art scene is evident in the expanding number of collections featuring her work. Through her international exhibitions and collaborations, Kirby has firmly established herself as an influential figure in African contemporary art, offering a compelling voice in the global art narrative.
