WHO ARE YOU, WHERE ARE YOU FROM, & WHAT DO YOU DO?
I’m Emily Smith, raised in Augusta but living in San Diego. I am back in Augusta for a temporary time and am excited to be a part of the fair this year. I am an illustrator that mainly focuses on relatable, mental health art! I plan to make prints, stickers, apparel, and more.

DESCRIBE YOUR PROCESS.
I typically brainstorm encouraging or relatable themes (usually basing ideas on my life experiences), then sketch and produce final illustrations on my iPad Pro.

WHAT INSPIRES YOU?
Anything mental health related, friendship, the inclusive feminist movement, my daughter, many other artists and illustrators

FUN FACT ABOUT YOU.
I love art so much, I named my daughter Matisse!

FAVORITE THING ABOUT DOWNTOWN AUGUSTA.
Downtown Augusta holds many memories for me as I spent a lot of time there my teenage years through my early twenties before moving to California. It’s nice to see familiar faces whenever out and about.

WHY DO YOU LOVE TO DESIGN, CREATE + MAKE?
Creating art has always been a passion of mine, since I was a child. The passion followed me through college (BFA in Fine Art from Augusta State!) and still remains a large part of my life today. I love creating illustrations that resonates with others struggling with mental health issues.

WHAT IS ONE PIECE OF ADVICE YOU WOULD SHARE WITH OTHER ARTISTS + MAKERS?
ry to create as much as possible. Quantity helps quality. It really makes a difference when you let go of expectations and allow your unique style & voice shine through.