ABOUT ME

For the sake of my sanity (and to keep a little mystery alive), I go by Emerson in my art career.

Think of it as my creative alter ego-- like Peter Parker has Spiderman, but with fewer webs and more paint stains!

It helps me maintain my privacy, stay grounded, and keep the focus where it should be on my art, my mental health, and the mission behind it all. Now that we've got that little secret out of the way...

A little about me is that I'm a 25-year-old self-taught artist from the beautiful city of Surf City, USA (Huntington Beach). Growing up, my childhood was filled with surfing, skateboarding, art, and championing animal welfare.

Insert 24-year-old Emerson:

In 2024, I was at a pivotal point in my life. My mental health was taking a toll on my body, a sad Spotify playlist on repeat, and confused about life. Naturally, I sought out professional help. Shout out to my therapist! lol <3

I like to say that my therapist prescribed doodling. So, I picked up my sketchbook and drew constantly. I drew in cafes whilst enjoying my honey cinnamon latte. I drew on my lunch breaks, before/after my shift, waiting in line @ the DVM, and my entire 2.5-hour bus ride to my destinations. So many ideas were popping into my head. I just couldn't stop. I didn't want to stop.

I didn't go ANYWHERE without my drawing essentials. To this day, I still don't go anywhere without my essentials.

Then one day...BOOM!

My professional art career began on September 1, 2024, with my work being displayed at the Hugo Rivera Gallery in Laguna Beach, CA.

While art is an outlet for my mental health, I started my career with a mission to improve animal welfare. So I named my studio The Dirty Dawgz Studio in honor of my dogs (2 out of 3 are rescues). With every sale, commission, or sticker that I sell, 15% is donated to an animal rescue organization.

Inspired by 1920s Rubberhose, my twist involves chaotic, vibrant, compressed characters appearing smushed against glass.

My approach to art is a direct reflection of my daily experiences. My upbringing was unpredictable and volatile. This ultimately caused me to feel under pressure. Under pressure to be the best student, I also strive to be the best athlete I can be, while balancing being an escape goat, black sheep, and golden child and grandchild.

How the hell is someone all three of those? All I can say is that up until 2024, I was a chronic people pleaser. I'm actively working on being able to say "no" confidently.

My art reflects the daily inner battle I endure. I feel like I'm pressed against glass, feeling stuck, and can't breathe.

BUT...

Life, of course, isn't all woes and sorrow! Since I was a child, I tried to focus on the happiness and color I saw in people, places, and things. This light and gratitude are reflected in my work by all of the vibrant and funny characters.

*PSA*


For business inquiries - please email:
dirtydawgzstudio@gmail.com

©Dirty Dawgz Studio, 2024