Story by: Lev Cardenas, Staff Writer
Photos by: Viviana Valencia, Editor-In-Chief
The From Here to There exhibition opened its doors on September 25 at the Edouard de Merlier Gallery, featuring the work of photographer Karen Emmett. The exhibition showcases a range of photographic and mixed-media works created from 1999 to the present. Emmett’s collection aims to highlight the often-overlooked, mundane aspects of life that shape the human experience.
“It’s eight different series in the show,” Emmett said. “…it’s almost like a retrospective.”
The exhibition features a variety of images that capture the ordinariness of daily life-moments, objects, and scenes that typically go unnoticed. In addition to the photographs, the exhibit includes artifacts that offer insight into the unnoticed details of life. Emmett emphasizes that, despite their seemingly mundane nature, these objects and moments contribute significantly to the human experience.
“Hopefully people look at it and make connections to their own life,” Emmett explained. “…and make their own observations, because observations are different.”
While people may experience life in similar ways, they each interpret and assign meaning to their experiences differently. Emmett’s work not only captures these experiences but also explores the connections people form with their surroundings and possessions. These relationships offer a window into what individuals deem significant, even in the most everyday moments.
“If you think of archaeology, when they dig up, they’re looking for those things,” said Emmett. “What do people leave behind?”
The exhibition encourages visitors to reflect on their own relationships with the world around them, as well as the lasting impact of the objects they choose to keep or discard.
Emmett also expressed her hopes for fellow artists. “I think it’s important for artists to create, whether the work is successful or not. If you have an idea, it’s best to see it through.”
The From Here to There exhibition is free to attend and will remain open at the Edouard de Merlier Gallery from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. through November 13.
