We had the good fortune of connecting with Emily Warnock and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Emily, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
Staying true to myself. Authenticity has been the most important factor for longevity and success in my work. I have found that if I focus on my values and creating what feels important to me, the right community, clients, and opportunities follow.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I have been an artist my whole life, working in many different mediums such as drawing, painting, embroidery, sculpture, and photography. But it was in my first year of college that I took a Darkroom Photography course, and absolutely fell in love with the entire process of analog photography. For the last 10 years, shooting film has become my biggest passion. It has helped me connect deeply with myself, and provided the opportunity to constantly connect with others.
There is an abundance of talented photographers out there, both shooting film and digital. I think what sets each of us apart from each other is the unique creative eye we all have. I feel extremely proud of the style and vision I have cultivated over the years. My work feels true to myself and who I am as an artist.
I got to where I am today through constant practice. Dedicating myself to my art has required continuous trying, making mistakes, and learning. It hasn’t been easy, but what does feel easy is the choice to keep going, because I care deeply about what I do.
My work is extremely personal to me, whether I am working on an independent project, or working with others — everything I create is connected to who I am and how I see the world. The art I create focuses on self-identity, intimacy, the queer community, and mental health.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Some of my favorite things to do in Denver involve seeing what everyone else is creating. There is an abundance of art and music to enjoy here.
I love going to the Denver Art Museum, RedLine Contemporary Art Center, Leon Gallery, or just walking around RiNo and Santa Fe Arts District to pop into different galleries and shops. Earnest Paper and Petals & Pages are my favorite independent bookshops. I absolutely love spending a day at the Denver Botanic Gardens, especially during the Summer Concert Series.
My favorite concert venues are Cervantes’ Masterpiece Ballroom and Larimer Lounge for a smaller show; or Mission Ballroom and Red Rocks for larger events. I do think Red Rocks is a must see – whether its for a concert, or just to walk around during the day and take in the view. A nice walk around Sloan Lake or a picnic in Cheeseman park for a leisurely activity, or hiking up North Table mountain for an incredible view (and a challenge).
As far as food and drink, the options are endless. Safta and Uchi for something fancier, Avanti for a view of the city, Mister Oso or Adelita’s for tacos. Bardo or Huckleberry for coffee.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I’d like to dedicate my shoutout to all of the people who support me and my work. I could not do this without the encouragement of my friends, family, and greater community. Specifically I’d like to thank Jacob Maness, for always supporting me and my art.

Website: https://emilywarnock.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heavylight____/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emily-warnock/

Image Credits
Portrait of me – Erica Dorgan
All other images – Emily Warnock

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