About the Elm & the Raven
Art and Creativity in the Tasmanian Wilderness
Finding the Muse in Nature's Call
Inspired by the precious environment that surrounds me from my home studio in the Huon Valley
Art that invites you to connect to your intuition and heed the calling of your adventurous heart.
Hi, I’m Emma Coombes, artist and founder of The Elm & the Raven.
Before birthing this little enterprise, I was working in communications. I held a degree in design, and in small ways my work offered me creative expression. Still, it wasn’t enough.
So I followed my desire to move my work into a realm where I could find artistic freedom.
I prioritised the things that mattered, went wild swimming, took photos, made art, grounded myself in nature, and gave myself time to find my way.
In 2022, from my studio based in the Huon Valley, the Elm & the Raven was born.
Australian Art by Tasmanian Artist Based in the Huon Valley
Ethos
I believe in creativity and inspired action. It’s easy to become passive in our choices. We outsource creativity and joy, and get by on autopilot.
At the Elm & the Raven, I create art that invokes contemplation, that offers alternate realities and the daring to follow your dreams.
Access the power to define the way you move through the world.
I am filled with a passion and reverence for nature;
Clean air and water, escape, romance, a love of wild things and a shy, quiet rebellion are characteristic of the Elm & the Raven community.
100% Tasmanian Owned and Operated
Emma - Artist & Founder
Values
Background
A self-taught photographer and visual artist. My art reveres Tasmania’s wilderness and draws from its’ ancient landscapes.
I have a Degree in Design from the University of Tasmania, a background in communications and experience in the equine industry.
Through my images, I explore the realms of myth and storytelling, creating atmospheres that evoke dreams and nostalgic longings.
In 2023 I held my first solo exhibition, “DEADWOOD”, at the Huon Valley Artbox and Hub Gallery.
The mission is simple: inspire the imagination, embrace wonder, and cultivate an appreciation for the natural world.
Foundations
My story intertwines with the threads of fantasy and the allure of the hero’s journey—a call to arms for those who dare to defy the status quo and follow the path less traveled.
At the Elm & the Raven, I believe that true fulfilment lies not in conformity, but in the courageous pursuit of one’s passions and the unwavering trust in intuition.
To be guardians of creativity, advocates for expression, and champions of kindness in a world often dominated by greed.
That’s why…
The Elm & the Raven is more than a brand; a testament to human resilience, forged in adversity and illuminated by hope. It celebrates authentic living and embracing tough choices for a well-lived life.
So come and journey through an enchanted reality. Let’s heed the call of adventure, honour nature’s wisdom, and unleash our boundless potential.
The Elm & the Raven—a sanctuary for the soul, where magic awaits.
Connect
There are many ways to get in touch with me at the Elm & the Raven. Use the socials, send an email to emma@elmandtheraven.com
OR
If you’d rather phone or make an appointment, get the details, schedule a time in the calender and let’s talk!
Essence
When you bring an Elm & the Raven artwork into your home you hold a compass to help guide your next adventure.
These works will speak to your free spirit, honouring your resilience and bravery in implementing your path to the hero’s journey.
A life that seemed impossible moves within your grasp. They speak of a gentle existence, of slow living, thoughtfulness, creativity, intuition, mindfulness and integration with the natural world.
Works that offer an escape and a window to the imagination. Designed as a totem to guide you and give you the courage to follow your heart.
The Naming of the Elm & the Raven
Once upon a time...
Somewhere shy of the ends of the earth…
Nestled between the branches of a towering elm tree, lived a raven whose ebony feathers glistened in the sunlight filtering through the fog.
The artist in her studio caught glimpses of the large black bird outlined high in the tree.
A silhouette that embodied the essence of a world where symbolism danced with nature and adventure beckoned to those who dared.
The leaves unfurl…
In the heart of this enchanted place in the southern wilds of Tasmania, where the whispers of the wind carried tales of magic and wonder, a sanctuary emerged.
Amidst the gentle embrace of the Huon Valley, The Elm & the Raven found its home—a haven where artistry thrived.
At the core of our spirit, there lies a deep reverence for the untamed wilderness and the creatures that call it home.
What's Next for The Elm & the Raven
Now that The Elm & the Raven creations are making their way in the world I can turn my attention towards what comes next.
I plan to expand my oil painting portfolio and continue making work that connects others to the narrative of their personal heroes’ journey.
My next photo-based collection will be drawn towards the ancient landscape of Tasmania’s West Coast.
Besides my art practice, I am working on final edits of the 1st novel in the Silverlight series. A fantastic tale where creativity is the source of all magic and power.
The Epic Tale...
For those who like the long read...
Where it started…
In 2022 I left my secure role in communications to create the Elm & the Raven. Life had been missing something. Each day seemed indistinguishable from the next.
The future lacked possibility. A slow erosion was taking place, imperceptible at first. My health and perspective suffered. A tower moment, a catalyst to force my hand, I had to take a risk to define my life. To free myself from the invisible binds that held me I resigned from my employment. I spent a year building, immersed in the development of The Elm & the Raven.
To create something expansive to reflect the forms of creativity I was interested in my ideas began to take shape. I had experience as a photographer and digital artist; but I had multiple interests, and I wanted to explore them.
The cold plunge…
I opened the doors in February 2023.
A brave and bold move not without challenges, fear of the unknown can paralyse the creative juices. I wondered at what delicious madness had come over me. Many moments plagued with self-doubt came to turn me from my path. Why would I continue through the uncertainty?
Because, my dear friend, there is only one way to proceed on an adventure. We leave the safety of the light and step into darkness. There we begin our alchemy.
An inevitable emergence will occur, for you too, when you place trust in yourself.
In May 2023, I held my first solo exhibition, ‘The Deadwood’. I exhibit and sell my work to strangers and opened my studio doors to the public.
Uncharted territory…
As time goes by, I am less tentative and more assured. The fear is still present, but I’ve levelled up to face the next round of demons in my creative journey.
For a good life, I am required to take a little risk, to move from the comfortable and place trust in my desires. I want my work to give you confidence to do the same.
This questing is a core essence of the Elm & the Ravens’ values, to explore and acknowledge our multi-faceted nature, our curiosity and desire to learn. Our resilience when faced with difficulty and our ability to overcome.
I hope the world that I create gives you a little nudge to do the same and offers you the courage to slay your own dragons.
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