My work explores interactions, energy, interrelationships, and the parallels that exist between the macrocosmic and microcosmic elements of the universe. I am inspired by quantum physics, cosmology, light, and the landscape. As an artist, I find concepts and discoveries in quantum physics to be endlessly fascinating and evocative. I ask questions such as "What would that interaction look like?", "How can I visualize energy?", and "What interrelationships might exist and how can I feel it, then subsequently express it?"
I feel that painting and drawing are incredibly relevant, even as technology continues to integrate into the arts. Painting never loses its potential to be singular and visionary. The power of visual inquiry and exploration can expand understanding and push boundaries in all manner of disciplines. I feel that there are innovations and insights to be gained by intuiting ideas and visuals for things which may not be visible -- or even truly knowable. Art asks deep questions and can integrate and interweave disparate concepts.
I seek to push my work in challenging directions. I feel that the best paintings contain a virtuosity of paint application combined with innovative technique, grounded in deep conceptual and meaningful intent. I seek to achieve these things in my work.
SELECTED EXHIBITIONS
2023
Earth/Ether, 2 Person show, Emily Plewe and Colour Maisch, CityHomeUNDERGROUND, Salt Lake City, UT.
2016
Utah Statewide Annual: Drawing & Works on Paper, Juried Exhibition, Salt Lake City, UT.
2014
Abstract, Rio Grande Gallery, Salt Lake City, UT. Invited artist.
2013
Gallery Tally: Calling for Gender Equity in the Art World, For Your Art Gallery, Los Angeles, CA.
2012
The Plastic Propoganda Poster Project, Westminster College, Salt Lake City, Utah
2011
Lawn Gnomes: Eat your Hearts Out, Utah Museum of Contemporary Art, Salt Lake City, UT “What the land says” - an earth based inscription using plants. Group exhibition.
2010
Prime, Nox Contemporary, Salt Lake City, UT. Group Exhibition
2009
Face Off at the Urban Gallery, 337 Project, Salt Lake City, UT. Invited Artist for mural competition.
2008
Utah ‘08: Painting and Sculpture, Salt Lake City, UT. Juried Exhibition.
2007
Utah ‘07: Mixed Media and Works on Paper, Salt Lake City, UT. Juried Exhibition.
2006
Emily Plewe, Solo Exhibition, A Gallery, Salt Lake City, UT.
2002
Group show, Artisan Gallery, Salt Lake City, UT.
2000
Living with LA Art - An Acquired Taste. Invited Artist. El Pueblo Gallery, Los Angeles, CA.
1997
Emily Plewe and John Sproul, two-person exhibition, Occidental College, Los Angeles, CA.
Emily Plewe - Recent Work, solo exhibition, Loge Gallery, Salt Lake City, UT.
John Sproul and Emily Plewe, two - person show, Springville Museum of Art, Springville, UT,
Utah Arts Festival, Artist of the Day. Invited Artist.
1996
In an Abstract Language, Dolores Chase Gallery, group show, Salt Lake City, UT.
Keiko Tanifuji and Emily Plewe , two person show, Atrium Gallery, Salt Lake City, UT.
Annual Spring Salon. Springville Museum of Fine Arts, Springville, UT. Juried exhibition.
EDUCATION
B.A., Wellesley College, 1994
M.F.A., Brigham Young University, 1999