Artist and former law student, Emilie Duval is fascinated by the absolute power of financial and geopolitical regulations. Over the years, she has created paintings and videos that focus on the subject of the dehumanizing tendencies of global regulations. This ensuing disconnect between norms and reality drove Duval to create paintings that question why we blindly follow rules for personal survival. Here, she discusses how her background influences her art and what else inspires her.
Tell me about some of the projects you’re currently working on?
My current projects are influenced by the geopolitical and financial conflicts in our global environment. While these themes drive my practice, I shy away from narrative representation envisioning my work more as a symbol of a shifting system. Translated into visuals this means lines are mixed with organic shapes, dark colors counterbalance sweet colors, and disparate mediums converge.
By melding opposites to symbolize societal dimensions, the final works have a complexity of form.
What is the most ACTIONABLE recommendation you would give to new artist just starting out?
To be organized and passionate about each creation.
Who (or what) influences your art?
Politics and finance are my main source of inspiration. I like to observe how states and countries evolve toward each other through law, regulations, and economics. Then I analyze all the historical details in order to create artworks that lead us towards a perception of our near future.
When did you start making art?
I have been passionate about art since I was very young. Growing up, I loved to spend time in museums and art galleries in Paris.
How has your work changed over time?
It has evolved a lot! I began by studying the old masters up until the late 20th Century. Then I started to create my own series of paintings which over time have captured the complexity of organized societies with a strong geometrical influence.
What excites you about the art world today?
I love to discover new artists with new techniques and different perspectives.
Name 3 books that changed your life.
Vanity Fair - William Makepeace Thackeray
The Sage Handbook of Architectural Theory
The First Volume of Art Now
