Carmela’s
March 25-28th, 2024
Closing Reception
When: Wednesday, March 27rd, 2024, 4:30–6:00 PM
Where: Gallery 130, Meek Hall
Introduce yourself and tell us where you are from.
Hello! My name is Emily Hairie and I’m from Macon, GA!
What attracted you to the Department of Art & Art History?
I’ve always been very artistic and wanted to create! I knew I was coming to Ole Miss for graphic design and I really debated about going through the Department of Art or through IMC, and once I realized how much more I can create and explore my personality in art, I chose the Department of Art!
What type of artwork do you create and can you discuss your process?
I create artwork that is very minimalist, yet intriguing. I create work that everyone can appreciate and understand. I really like to start with one idea and just expand out, even if it means my first idea is now completely changed. I draw out one idea and I just play with it and play with it until I love what I made!
Which artists do you look to for inspiration?
I really like artists that experiment a lot with simpler designs, like Barbra Kruger. However, I also like to look at some other artists that experiment and play with color, like Janet Fish!
Which professors inspired you the most?
Josh Brinlee and Tyler Barnes were the professors that inspired me the most! Josh was the one that made me become a BFA student and to pursue graphic design! I would not be here without him! Tyler pushed me to create some of my best work! He has helped me so much in the past few years and I would not be here without him!
What has been your favorite class during your years here?
One of my favorite classes during my years in the art department was beginning and intermediate painting or ceramics! It was so different from my graphic design classes and they helped me with certain things in my digital work! It made me think about texture, color, moods, and so much more!
Do you have a favorite memory here in the department?
One of my favorite memories in the art department is hanging out in the studios after class, and creating new friendships! Some of my best conversations were during studio hours!
Do you have any advice for incoming art students?
Take it easy! Don’t over-complicate things! Go to studio hours! And 90% of the time, your first idea is not your best idea!
Do you have any hobbies outside of the art department?
I love to hang out with my best friends and my cat, Nancy!
What is your favorite thing about Oxford or the University?
I just love how Oxford and the University feels like home! Coming from out of state, I was very worried about how I would adjust to being away from everything I’ve known, but when I came to Oxford and Ole Miss, I felt like I didn’t have that worry. I felt like I was at home, I kept forgetting I wasn’t in Georgia! I felt like I belonged here!
Can we find you on social media?
Yes! My instagram is @emilyhairie, and I’m currently working on an art account!
Do you have any plans after graduation?
I plan to live in Nashville, but I’m happy wherever the road takes me! As long as I’m doing graphic design and I have my cat, I’ll be happy!