For over a century, our region has been home to extraordinary artists. Local Arts Index highlights the work of individuals who continue our community’s rich creative legacy.
Meet Erin Girling.
How Did You Become An Artist?
I am very fortunate to have come from a line of artists, though I am not sure my relatives would use the word “artist” to describe themselves and their dedication to their trade. Nonetheless, being raised to understand and witness the importance of having a creative outlet encouraged me to explore multiple art forms from an early age.
When I was in high school, I realized nothing would be more gratifying than pursuing a career in the arts. With the help and guidance from several of my high school and college art professors, I began the journey to make the idea a reality.
What Kind Of Art Do You Make?
I work primarily with reclaimed wood and other natural materials. I begin my process by creating a structural geometric form, this process is routine like and usually varies only by size and nature of the materials at hand.
Similar to the concept of a mandala, I find having a contained space to be less overwhelming. This works as a great starting point me.
Once I have created the outer structure I begin exploring more organic forms within it. I have found that having an exact plan for a piece can be detrimental, when working with natural materials you have to let them guide you and just see where the piece takes you.
What’s Your Muse?
Nature. In my eyes, the materials I collect stand alone as works of art. I like to think my pieces showcase nature by literally framing it and hanging it on the wall. It sort of forces the viewers to examine it as art whereas if they saw it on the ground in the woods, they might not even notice it.
I have always loved wondering in the woods admiring my surroundings and just being in awe of the universe. I feel really lucky to have found a way to share those feelings by transforming them into works of art.
What’s Next?
I am pretty new to the game, so I am currently trying to get to know artists and other local people in the industry. I definitely want to keep exhibiting and sharing my work with those who enjoy it; there’s no better feeling.
I currently have an exhibit up at Maria Lusia through the end of October. My partnership with Maria has been incredibly inspiring so I am feeling motivated to keep making new work and explore my medium further. I have a lot of ideas about new things I want to do; it’s all very exciting.
To see more of Erin’s work, visit eringirling.com.
Local Arts Index is sponsored by Maria Luisa, 77 South Broadway and ML by Maria Luisa, 75 South Broadway, Nyack, NY
