Emily Winkel, local artist, combines her love of nature with her skills in watercolor and pastel.
“My art is all about the “pause” moments. Taking the time to stop, breathe, and actually experience the beautiful world around us. My subject matter follows this concept of appreciating what is in front of us rather than hurrying past” said Winkel.
Recently, Winkel participated in the Franklin First Friday Art Walk, painting watercolors of photographed landscapes live.
“I am entering my 4th year as a full time working artist, but I have worked in a professional capacity in addition to a day job for many years before! I completed my BFA in 2013, and it was my plan to be a working artist while growing up” said Winkel.
“My primary mediums are watercolor and pastel, and I offer original artwork, prints, and greeting cards through events, art fairs, and my website. I also accept commissions for landscapes, bridal bouquets, and portraits” shared Winkel.
In addition, Winkel completes collaborative pieces with her husband, AJ. “My love of rock hunting in northern Michigan has turned into a set of “Treasure Boxes”, featuring fine art prints of my watercolor artworks “Lake Michigan Treasures” and “Michigan Rocks”, handmade, shadowbox-style frames made by AJ, and a collection of Lake Michigan stones I have collected and polished myself. We wanted to encourage people to pick up and touch the stones, so they’re built open in the front to be interactive” explained Winkel.
Winkel is connected with Generation Art & Frame, a local business located in Franklin, where she has been teaching classes and monthly workshops. She spends time at art shows and artist residencies between Michigan and Indiana, and will be attending the Penrod fair in Indiana in September.
“My favorite part is being able to build a rotation and travel schedule to my favorite places to paint. Northern Michigan has always been an inspiration for me, and now I am able to make it part of my business to go there to do art shows, artist residencies, and continue growing my skills in plein air painting on the side of a dune overlooking the lake!” said Winkel.
For more information, visit her website at www.emilyandraillustrations.com or follow her social media at EmilyAndra Illustrations.