Florida Orchid Watercolor Print

Erin McGee Ferrell Artist’s Statement In my work as a contemporary artist, I strive to combine traditional oil painting techniques with innovative technology to create interactive pieces that stand the test of time. I am passionate about creating pieces that engage the viewer and invite them to explore the nuances of the artwork, without relying on technology that may become obsolete as it changes. I have also been experimenting with pigments that alter in response to environmental changes, such as thermochromic pigments that change color in response to temperature. My work is inspired by a variety of global sources, including my own travels to diverse cultural locations such as Ecuador where I explored the use of natural pigments for painting, sourced from the Amazon Rainforest. My series, Insect Hotels: Restoration of the Garden, was inspired by my travels to Athens, Bahrain, and Germany in 2022. These experiences have greatly influenced my artistic perspective and have inspired me to push the boundaries of traditional materials and techniques. In my recent projects, I have used NFC technology to embed tags under traditional oil paint, allowing viewers to interact with the piece through their smartphones and experience audio and video elements. Through artist residencies at Carnegie Mellon University and Arizona State University in 2023, I am excited to have the opportunity to collaborate with other artists and scientists and explore the potential of combining traditional oil painting with technology. As an artist, my long-term goal is to create interactive pieces that inspire thought, emotion, and meaningful exchange between the viewer and the artwork, and that will stand the test of time as enduring works of art. I am confident that my interactive pieces will be well-received by collectors and institutions alike, and I look forward to sharing my work in a solo show Manama, Bahrain 2024.