Meet Emma Oliver of Emma Lin Oliver Designs in North of Boston

Today we’d like to introduce you to Emma Oliver.

Thanks for sharing your story with us Emma . So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I have always been an innovative and crafty person. I most recently graduated from Alfred University’s School of Art and Design with my BFA. I concentrate primarily in fiber art and printmaking. Most often, I make fiber sculpture which includes traditional things like garments with some sort of twist, or I make sure to subvert my material in some way. I’m very well known for my illusion knits, a knitting technique that allows the viewer to see text or imagery in the knit piece from certain angles only.

We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Art is always a challenging path because an artist would like to reach many audiences while still making work for themselves. I hope that my work about relationships and places as well as vintage objects allows viewers to relate while still letting me make what I want.

We’d love to hear more about your business.
I am the only commercial illusion knitter in the United States at this time, so that’s something that makes me different. I take commission work of imagery and text to create my illusions, but find that text is the most powerful in terms of subject matter. I specialize in material subversion and pushing the material as far as I can. If it can’t be done, I will most likely try it. Most recently, I have constructed a 1957 Chevy Bel-Air entirely out of yarn and stuffing, so don’t try to tell me it can’t be done!

What were you like growing up?
I like to think I was friendly and a born leader. I didn’t always want to lead but being an older sibling it’s a job you often fall into. I was very interested in ceramic work and that is what I originally went to school for, but that changed when I fell in love with fiber.

Pricing:

• Custom illusion knits- start at 500 dollars
• Custom knit shoes- start at 75 dollars
• Custom traditional handmade garments- start at 50 dollars

Contact Info:

• Website: https://emmalinoliver.wixsite.com
• Phone: 978-317-1415
• Email: emmalinoliver@gmail.com
• Instagram: emmalinoliverart

Image Credit:
Emma Oliver, Thea Hart

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