Erin Mushisky

BA Painting and Anthropology

Instagram: @emushisky.art

ARTIST STATEMENT: In our chaotic world of stress, strife and uncertainty, art and other media can act as an escape for both the consumer and the creator. Growing up, I was introduced to many major fantasy and science fiction films, books, and tv shows through my family. The media within these genres brought my long-distance family closer together and became my primary artistic inspiration as well as my escape. Moreover, as the years go by, the world feels like it is being drained of wonder, vibrancy and adventure. My artwork and writing seek to bring that back through bold color, fanciful creatures, and unique explorations of contemporary concepts. 

 For this painting, Familiar Hero, I have modeled the character after my sister. The hero that she is cast as is a half-orc woman at night, on the edge of battle with torch light illuminating her scarred and fierce face. She is dressed in armor and is embellished with adornments inspired by the Serbian flag and traditional jewelry, which is the national origin of our kin. 

 The purpose of my project deals with my personal experience with familial bonding and the sometimes peculiar ways that families can forge a stronger sense of kinship. Some of the memories that I will always cherish are the times that my family spends playing games together. Further, the games that have left the largest positive impact on my family are fantasy tabletop roleplaying games such as Dungeons and Dragons and Pathfinder.