In a world often overwhelmed by chaos, we find solace in the vibrant brushstrokes and captivating artworks of talented individuals like Emma Baxendale. Emma’s artistic journey is nothing short of awe-inspiring, taking her from the halls of academia to the prestigious galleries of Paris and beyond. Today, we are privileged to delve into the story behind the visionary artist as she opens up about her triumphs, struggles, and the transformative power of her craft.
From her early days as a Master of Fine Arts graduate at the University of Ulster to the challenges she faced as a dedicated teacher, Emma’s passion for art has been a constant force throughout her life. Her unwavering devotion to creativity led her to establish a nurturing environment for young minds, infusing her artistry into the education and well-being of the next generation.
However, life’s unpredictability took its toll on Emma, pushing her to the brink of despair with personal and business setbacks. Yet, in the darkest moments, she found an unexpected beacon of hope and love in the form of Simon, who stood by her side through the storm, reigniting the spark that had been dormant for far too long.
As Emma dusted off her paintbrush and let her imagination run wild, she unleashed a whirlwind of colours, emotions, and stories onto her canvas. The response was nothing short of extraordinary, propelling her from a humble Instagram page to the world’s most celebrated art exhibitions, alongside legendary names like Banksy and Damien Hirst.
Join us as we embark on a captivating journey with Emma Carey Baxendale, a visionary artist, a revolutionary spirit, and a woman determined to break the barriers in the art world. Her mesmerizing artworks transport us to our happy places, inviting us to explore the depths of meaning and connection within each stroke. Through her art, Carey aims to inspire fellow women artists and leave an indelible legacy that transcends borders and touches hearts worldwide.
Get ready to immerse yourself in the radiant universe of Carey Baxendale, where art becomes therapy, and colors breathe life into dreams. Be prepared to discover the empowering tale of a woman who dares to challenge conventions and empowers others to find their voices through creativity. This is an interview that will ignite your passion, ignite your soul, and remind you that the world needs more colour and more dreams.
So, without further ado, let us embark on this journey with Carey Baxendale, a journey that will undoubtedly leave us inspired and in awe of the remarkable power of art…
Tell us about the journey that led you to launch your brand, Carey Baxendale…
This is quite a story to tell! In 2002, I graduated with my Masters in Fine Art from the University of Ulster, Belfast, Northern Ireland. At that time, the art industry was highly competitive, and securing representation by an art gallery was a challenging task. Seeking new experiences, I decided to travel to New Zealand for six months and also explored Singapore before enrolling in a PGCE program in Art & Design at Manchester Metropolitan University.
After completing my PGCE, I became a Teacher of Art at the Secondary School level, which was a role that truly resonated with my passion for art and creativity. However, my life took a turn in 2015 when I suffered a mini-stroke and became a mother of three lovely girls. This pivotal moment led me to reevaluate my life’s direction.
In 2016, I made the bold decision to start a private teacher-led day nursery for children aged 0-5 years. My vision was to incorporate my artistic background into their education and well-being. Little did I know that this journey would be intertwined with a marriage and business divorce, initiated by my partners, nearly bringing my business and dreams to ruin. It was a tough and challenging three years, but I fought fiercely for myself and my children’s future.
It was during the Christmas of 2021 that my life took another turn. My partner, Simon, noticed my struggle with the aftermath of the personal and business turmoil and asked me what would make me truly happy and bring me back to my artistic roots. Without hesitation, I expressed my love for art and my desire to paint professionally once again, a passion I had not pursued since 2002. Simon and I decided to take action, and he supported me in ordering canvas, paints, and all the equipment needed to reignite my creative journey.
With newfound determination and nothing to lose, I started creating art as therapy and a means of self-expression. Utilizing Instagram, I shared photographs and close-ups of my artwork, hoping to find appreciation and connection with others. To my astonishment, the response was overwhelming. Positive comments and support poured in, reaffirming my confidence and self-belief.
Within a few weeks, I received an email from an Art Gallery based in New York & Toronto, expressing interest in representing me at their upcoming Art exhibition at Carrousel Du Louvre in Paris. It was a dream come true as I stood among my artworks at the Louvre, exhibiting alongside globally renowned artists like Banksy, Damien Hirst, and Kaws. From that iconic moment, my art career soared, and I went on to exhibit at prestigious events such as Art Basel in Switzerland, New York, Barcelona, and Madrid. My artworks have been featured in esteemed publications like Vogue, Tatler, Vanity Fair, and World of Interiors. Today, I wake up with excitement, wondering what this wonderful day will bring me through my artwork, my true happy place.
In three words, how would you describe your art?
Visionary | Revolutionary | Interconnecting
While art is subjective, what do you hope people feel when they look at your work?
I want people to immerse themselves in the colours and meanings of my artwork, to delve deep into the stories behind each piece and feel a strong connection that captivates and intrigues them.
With your versatile skills, what makes you feel most alive and why?
My family and my art are what truly make me feel alive. Additionally, using unconventional equipment to produce my artworks, not limiting myself to traditional paint brushes, adds an extra spark of creativity to my process.
What is the process behind creating a new piece of art, and who is involved in the process?
I follow a spontaneous approach inspired by one of my favorite artists, Picasso. Much like him, I allow my artworks to take shape in the moment, reflecting my life journey, mood, and the challenges I’ve faced as a mother, wife, and businesswoman. When a vision strikes, I head to my art studio and channel my emotions onto the canvas.
If you hadn’t pursued this career, what else would you have liked to do?
Art has always been at the heart of my teaching career, and my experiences over the past two decades have enriched the depth and meaning of my artworks today. However, had I not embarked on my art journey, I might have explored other avenues within the realm of creativity and education.
Can you walk us through an average day in your life?
My day typically starts at 6:30 am, where I begin organizing my three children for school and college. Following this, I have an onsite briefing with my staff at my day nursery. Three days a week, I engage in swimming, which helps me relax and recharge. When inspiration strikes, I head to my art studio to create new artworks, and then I focus on photography and uploading content to various platforms and social media. The evenings are reserved for family time and planning for the next day.
Looking back since launching the business, is there anything you would do differently?
Looking back, I can honestly say there’s nothing I would change. I wholeheartedly dedicate myself to my art business, working seven days a week, consistently creating and promoting new works, and connecting with interior businesses and art collectors. My heart and soul are poured into my art, and I have no regrets.
Our readers love to travel. What destination is at the top of your bucket list?
The Maldives is at the top of my bucket list. I dream of spending two weeks there with my husband, enjoying the tranquility and natural beauty of the remote and pristine surroundings.
Where do you call home?
Originally from Ballymena, Northern Ireland, I currently reside with my husband and three children in West Didsbury, Manchester.
Running a business can be non-stop. What do you do to switch off?
To unwind and find balance, I swim three times a week and practice meditation for 10 minutes three times a day.
What’s your go-to quote when you’re lacking motivation?
“You have only one life and have been chosen for the gift of Art; don’t waste a minute!”
In five years from now, where do you see the brand?
In five years, I envision Carey Baxendale Art achieving global recognition, gracing the fashion houses and interiors of the world, and breaking barriers for women artists. My goal is to be among the top ten women artists, empowering and inspiring other women in the artistic realm.
Where can people find out more?
To learn more about my artwork and journey, visit my website at www.careybaxendale.com or find me on Instagram at @carey_baxendale_art. Feel free to reach out to me directly at 07483118819.
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