Emily Matsumoto Gaudet
I create large-scale abstract paintings that reflect the rhythm of family life in the mountains, the quiet beauty of nature, and my journey to connect with my Japanese heritage. My work is a blend of spontaneity and intention—planned compositions that evolve organically, much like the changing landscapes that inspire them.
Growing up in Park City, Utah, I was surrounded by towering peaks, shifting seasons, and a culture deeply tied to the land. These elements became woven into my creative process, not just as inspiration but as materials themselves. I incorporate found textures, aged Japanese prints, and even the dirt that clings to my children’s shoes and my dog’s paws—a true reflection of daily life in the mountains. Through these layers, I explore themes of identity, belonging, and connection, seeking to bridge the gap between past and present, tradition and personal history.
Influenced by impressionism, I juxtapose abstract backgrounds with more defined focal points, blending fluidity with structure. My hope is that my work evokes a sense of peaceful, equanimous joy—an invitation to slow down, go outside, and embrace introspection. In a world that often moves too fast, I want my paintings to serve as a reminder to pause, breathe, and choose connection over divisiveness.
At its core, my art is an act of both preservation and transformation—honoring where I come from while embracing the present. Each piece is a step toward understanding my heritage, my environment, and myself. I create because it pushes me beyond fear, toward openness and vulnerability. And ultimately, I hope that in seeing my work, you find something beautiful, something that invites you to linger a little longer in a moment of stillness.