Emma Childs chats with us about Goethe, Britney Spears and the power of beginning.
Artist Emma Childs with one of her pieces
Anyone who steps into the new Amazon headquarters in Arlington will notice the work of Emma Childs (@emmechilds). The Baltimore artist’s pieces are remarkable for their color and scale. “It’s a work I’m really proud of, and I loved having the opportunity to create something of that size, specific for that space, that I imagine is enjoyed by people filtering through that building every day,” she says. We caught up with Childs as she settled into her new studio.
Emma Childs, “Weighted Blank”
Best life advice you ever received?
My dad shared his favorite Goethe quote with me, and it became mine. ‘Whatever you can do or believe you can, begin it. Boldness has genius, power and magic in it.’
When are you happiest?
When I get to see people connecting with my work.
What’s your greatest weakness?
Right now, the Real Housewives of Salt Lake City.
What’s on your Spotify playlist right now?
Troye Sivan, BANKS, Brent Faiyez
What’s on your bucket list for showing your work?
I’m not picky, but I would flip at the opportunity to have an international solo exhibition.
Book on your nightstand right now you’re recommending to friends?
I just finished Britney Spears’ memoir, The Woman in Me. It made me cry.
Your favorite insider cocktail bars in Charm City?
Clave (barclavel.com), Cookhouse (cookhousecafebar.com), Dutch Courage (dutchcouragebar.com), Bluebird (thebluebirdbaltimore.com) and Royal Blue (royalbluebar.com).
What would you be doing if you weren’t an artist?
Maybe something in furniture or interior design—or running an animal rescue farm.
Where do you want to travel in 2024?
France. I’ve never been!
Favorite museum space in the DC area?
I love the Glenstone Museum (glenstone.org) in Potomac. I try to get there a couple of times a year. Most recently, I saw the Ellsworth Kelly exhibit; he’s one of my absolute favorites.
If you had a superpower, what would it be?
Teleportation
What is your mantra?
Begin it.
Photography by: COURTESY OF THE ARTIST
