Artist Profile — Emily Ebbs
Emily Ebbs is an artist based on Gadigal land, whose practice explores the emotional residue of memory through process-driven work. Ebbs graduated with a Master of Fine Arts from the National Art School (2022), where she was awarded the Tweed Regional Gallery and Margaret Olly Art Centre Nancy Fairfax (AIR) Award (2022), as well as the Yves Hernot Painting Award in the same year. Since completing her studies, Emily has held multiple solo exhibitions at Hake House of Art, Artereal Gallery, and the Tweed Regional Gallery. She has also participated in over 20 group exhibitions, was a finalist in the 2023 Mosman Art Prize and, most recently, the 2025 Blacktown City Art Prize. Most recently, Emily’s work and writings have been featured in the 67th issue of Artist Profile (2024), with a three-page process article highlighting her artistic journey.
Artist Statement
At the core of my practice is the concept of the stain—a mark or discolouration that lingers, difficult to remove. For me, the stain symbolises the lasting impact of past experiences, particularly those that have shaped us emotionally. My abstract paintings are devoid of figurative elements, yet they evoke a sense of nostalgia, contemplation, and introspection. These works are not just visual; they carry an intimate, almost palpable energy that suggests a deeper human presence. Through subtle layers of pigment, texture, and form, I create a fluid, intimate portrait of myself—one drawn from my personal memories, observations, and imagined experiences, spanning from childhood to adulthood. My work invites viewers to engage with the emotional depths of the human experience, offering a space for reflection and connection.