Meet a Maker - Emma Hardaker

We invited Emma Hardaker to paint a canvas for the walls of our Leeds store, we caught up with her to find out about her work.

Tell us about what you have created for our canvas project?

For the canvas projected I have created an abstract piece using lots of shapes and patterns with windows showing more figurative stuff.

Which materials did you use and why?

I used acrylic paint as it meant I could mix up my own colours and I find it very versatile. I also used paint markers for outlining to give it a more bold look.

Where do you make most of your work?

Either in my studio space down on Mabgate or at home in my spare room/studio.

What are your favourite creative tools?

That's a hard question it kind of depends on what I am creating. I love Lino and wood block printing so I guess my Japanese cutting tools would be one of my favourites!

Who are your biggest creative influences?

I would have to say probably the artist and creatives around me, I am constantly being inspired by things as I go about my everyday!

If you could only use one material in your work, what would it be and why?

Probably just fine liners and paper you can never get bored of it!

What was the best exhibition or art event you went to last year?

It would have to be a show at Assembly house by a collective called precious.

If you had a tip for artists starting out, what would it be?

I would just say have fun and play, and don't worry about anything final just get making stuff!

You can see more of Emma's work on her Instagram.