Emily Bommarito is a new media artist and college educator from Detroit, Michigan, specializing in combining digital and hand techniques for product design, new media art, and conceptual experiences.

I pursue art-making that is not limited by the hand, while incorporating emerging technologies. Humanity, much like programming, is a knotted algorithm of “if, then" statements influenced by an infinite number of variables, making each of our experiences unique and unreplicable.

My creative practices incorporate traditional product design techniques such as mold-making and user experience, with nuanced processes such as code, 3D modeling, and digital fabrication. I believe that the utilization of computer-aided-design does not lessen the value of creativity, but is another tool that must be honed to create meaningful and educated work. Tactile skills utilizing physical materials such as clay, wood, foam, or mark-making serves as building blocks to support a larger body of work that encompasses both hand-made and digital designs, with constant consideration of user interaction. The natural world and humanity are not limited by binary rules, all things can be conjoined. This culmination brings relevance to my work in western society, and our existence as socio-digital humans.

As a native to the Detroit and Great Lakes region, I am inspired by the duality between environment and urban dystopia. I have witnessed the impact of climate change and unrest in my physical world and local culture, leaving me to question in my work; how will we experience the future? Is there security in the experiences of today? I believe that through technology, I can not only create supplements for what may be lost with time, but create work that lives beyond augmentation with immersion and digital engagement.

Education

Cranbrook Academy of Art / Bloomfield Hills, Michigan

MFA in 4D Design / 2022

Wayne State University / Detroit, Michigan

BFA in Industrial Design and Ceramics / 2018

Henry Ford College / Dearborn, Michigan

AA in Liberal Arts and AAS in Pre-Engineering / 2015