Alumni Spotlight: Emily Larsen

Alumni Spotlight:

Emily Larsen

Emily Larsen is a biology major and art minor who attended the Rome Art Program in 2024 to discover and develop her voice as an artist. Emily mainly works in 2D from life and finds inspiration in abstract shapes of light and shadow.

How did your time with RAP influence your work?

RAP pushed me outside my comfort zone and allowed me to respond organically to what I was observing. For the first time I could see a unique perspective show through my art which has inspired me to work more freely in the future.

What was your favorite place in Rome and why?

The Giardino Degli Aranci (The Orange Gardens) ended up being my favorite spot. It was always so peaceful with someone playing the saxophone or guitar. I enjoyed drawing there and also went back multiple times to sit with RAP friends and watch the sunset over Rome.

What are you working on now? What are your hopes for the future?

I am currently applying to Biology masters' programs, but I am continuing to take art courses and making art outside of class. In the Spring semester I will be taking an independent study course in painting where I hope to replicate RAP and focus on plein air landscape paintings of my favorite spots in Williamsburg.

What has been your biggest art success since studying in Rome?

I received a grant to attend RAP and I was able to present my work from Rome at an exhibition put on at William & Mary this past November. It was awesome to celebrate my work and share how special the Rome Art Program is.

What is your advice for future RAP students?

Trust yourself! My best work in Rome happened when I let myself work without worrying about the final product. It was difficult to learn how to turn off my brain and just respond but reminding myself that I have the skills to make good art and to not be afraid helped me loosen up while drawing or painting.

@e.larsen.art