“Moments” Exhibition at CWU Reflects on Life Moments during the Pandemic

Central Washington University senior H.R. Emi found inspiration in the impacts of the pandemic.

"There is a story in every moment we live, and I find that I can only capture a mere snapshot," she says. In her BFA Senior Exhibition, Emi reflects on the moments of the last two years while living during the pandemic.

During quarantine, Emi encountered many moments of silence and turmoil. Yet, when analyzing these moments, she has found uncanny beauty and peace. These life moments are captured on canvas, paper, and through a lens in her work.

The upcoming exhibition, Moments, will open to the public on June 1- 4 in Gallery 231, located in Randall Hall on the CWU campus. The exhibit is open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Please note that all CWU safety protocols will be in place, including the use of face coverings.

Through paintings, drawings, and photographs, Emi renders moments that look like snapshots. Emi explains that "rendering life around me has become my inspiration and motivation. Coming up to adulthood has been difficult and daunting as a first-generation Mexican-American.

"Moving away from home and coming back home due to the pandemic affected me as it did to many others," she said. "But, sitting down and reflecting on moments through art has helped become my outlet."

In her work, Emi evokes notes of nostalgia in depicting the silent moments around her house as well as turmoil as she includes imagery of canyon fires and social issues. Her show concludes on a note of hope with an art installation showing her work desk, the place where she plans to capture future moments through her art.

Emi's lifetime goal is to "capture life and the trace of humanity through the moments we create," she says, adding that she believes there is a story in every moment we live, but in the end, she finds that she can only capture mere frames of those instances.

To see more of H.R. Emi's artwork, you can visit www.hremi.com. Emi can also be found on Instagram @h.r.emi

Media contact: Richard Moreno, Department of Public Affairs, 509-963-2714, Richard.Moreno@cwu.edu.