I’m an artist and animator working across a wide range of media, from site-specific installations to textile and mosaic to body-paint animation. I find this medium uniquely powerful in exploring and processing the human condition—connecting both the model, as the living canvas, and the viewer through expressions that reveal something of the soul. It adds a dimension to the work that goes far deeper than the brushstrokes.

Recently, I’ve been developing animation using Batik textiles and stop-frame projection mapping, experimenting with ways to bring storytelling out of the screen and into physical environments such as light festivals and augmented reality experiences.

I’m also deeply inspired by science and nature, and their influence frequently weaves its way through my work.

Emma Allen is a Sri Lankan British artist based in the UK who produces work in various mediums.

Emma combines painting, body-painting, animation, sculpture, textiles and light in her work.

Best known for her body-paint animation work which has been exhibited all over the world, received millions of views online, and press coverage in print and online and featured as TV news stories in over 17 countries. Her work manages to combine critical acclaim with mainstream appeal, attracting audiences in many countries around the world.

Emma is not afraid to tackle big issues with her work and through the course of it has helped several charities, worked with refugees, prisoners and founded an arts charity for disadvantaged children in Sri Lanka.

While much of her earlier work focused on themes of science and nature, her recent films—featuring puppets and projection mapping—reflect a shift towards more playful storytelling. Emma is now exploring the blend of traditional stop-motion animation with modern technologies like AR, VR, and projection mapping, bringing together handmade techniques and new digital tools creating a dynamic interplay between the old and the new.

She also works with private clients and fashion brands, creating bespoke hand-painted products ranging from shoes and bags to large sculptures, installations, and painted people!

Contact: emmadallen@gmail.com