Emily Bottomer, a London-based artist originally from Derby, delves into the complexities of identity and socio-political themes through her labor-intensive methods. A graduate of Derby University (2021) and has recently completed her MA in Fine Art at Central Saint Martins (2025), Bottomer’s work is deeply rooted in her experiences as a working-class woman.
Her practice embraces humble materials such as acrylic paint, graphite, and charcoal to produce large-scale abstract drawings and paintings. These works transcend traditional boundaries, offering viewers a meditative space to reflect on their own emotional responses. Bottomer’s techniques, which include automatism and repetition, highlight the equal importance of process and final product.
Exploring themes such as labour, class, dirt, and morality, Bottomer’s art investigates the lived experiences of working-class individuals and womanhood in the 21st century. Her recent focus includes the Möbius loop and the myth of Sisyphus, serving as metaphors for the persistent labour and struggles of the working-class.
EDUCATION
Central Saint Martins, MA Fine Art, 2025
University of Derby, BA Fine Art, 2021
Nottingham School of Art, Foundation Diploma in Fine Art, 2017
EXHIBITIONS
2025
Central Saint Martins Postgraduate Art, Central Saint Martins, London
Offprint: Publication as Event, Tate Modern, London
Detritus, Central Saint Martins, London
Takeaway, The Good Rice Gallery, London
2024
Imprints, Central Saint Martins, London
The Weight of Womanhood, Central Saint Martins, London
TBF_, Hypha Studios, London
(Dis)placement, Central Saint Martins, London
Momentum, Central Saint Martins, London
See It, Say It, Unsorted, Central Saint Martins, London
2023
Untitled, Artcore Gallery, Derby
2021
Calm Through Storm, Derby Cathedral, Derby
ENTROPY-19, University of Derby, Derby
University of Derby Postcard show, Derby
2020
Show Show, University of Derby, online exhibition
ENTROPY, University of Derby, Derby
AWARDS
2025 Central Saint Martins x The Other Art Fair New Futures Award
2023 UAL Postgraduate Scholarship MA Fine Art
2021 University of Derby Deans Award
RESIDENCIES
2023 Untitled at Artcore Gallery, Derby