Meet Emily Labowe of Los Ángeles/ Artist

Today we’d like to introduce you to Emily Labowe.

Hi Emily, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I’ve been a model for almost 12 years. In 2020, I founded Poppy Undies, a line of hand-designed and embroidered, sustainably made undies and wear designed around comfort, self-love, and community. About five years ago I shifted to focusing on my painting practice full time, and in July 2024 I had my first solo show, “New Painter,” here in Los Angeles.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Not in the slightest, ha! Lots of ups and downs. Modeling, fashion, and painting are all unpredictable industries, and I’m a hyper curious person who loves a challenge — but that comes with self-doubt, imposter syndrome, and risk-taking. The only way I’ve “figured things out” is by trying & failing & trying again. Starting Poppy meant learning production and manufacturing from scratch, something I’d never done before. It’s a mindset thing, honestly and a continuous practice in life — trying to see setbacks or struggles as opportunities for something else to open up or happen that isn’t obvious in the moment, and to become more honest with yourself and what you’re creating.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am a painter. My work is abstract — I use a lot of molding paste to build texture and dimension, creating web-like, cellular shapes that feel like they’re growing across the canvas. I don’t come from a traditional art background; I’ve taught myself through practice, trial and error, and staying curious about materials. I’ve figured unique ways of applying different pastes, which has led me toward a sculptural, almost 3D textile-like style — with a topographical texture. A real highlight was my first solo show, “New Painter”. Right now, I’m most excited about my next body of work, which centers on a scar of mine — it feels like the most honest and personal series I’ve made yet. Scars are our battle wounds each one a physical marker that tells a story… I am looking forward to sharing these new pieces sometime this year.

Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
A variety of people have been integral. My mom has been a big source of inspiration — she’s the one who first taught me embroidery, and that spirit of making things by hand. I’ve drawn a lot from being surrounded by a supportive creative community — friends who have and continue to inspire me. There have also been a few specific people who have really influenced and inspired me — instilling a trust in my gut and intuition, to allow myself to just be me and create what comes out naturally. Hours of conversations, experimenting, playing… you know who you are.

Pricing:

• link website which has available works
• Interested parties can also email or DM me

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.emilylabowe.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emlabowe/?hl=en
• Other: https://www.instagram.com/emlabowe.paints/

Image Credits
All images of me are by Matt Morris
Art imagery credits:
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‘Diamond Shopping for Water’ /30” x 40” / acrylic & molding paste on canvas / available. message for inquiry

‘Ty Oro Osia’ / 30” x 40” / acrylic on canvas / sold.

Close up of ‘Earthstory’ / 30” x 40” / acrylic & molding paste on canvas / available. Message for inquiry.

‘Untitled Warmth’ / 30” x 40” / acrylic & molding paste on canvas / available. Message for inquiry