Today we’d like to introduce you to Emily Tan.
Hi Emily, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I was born in Port Washington, New York, and I’ve been creating art since kindergarten. Art became a way to express myself and process the world around me from an early age—it’s always been deeply therapeutic.
I earned my Bachelor of Fine Arts from the University of Tampa, where I focused on painting, drawing, and installation art. My creative journey has always been closely tied to my heritage. I am Chinese-Filipino and Slovakian, and growing up as one of the only Asian kids in my school shaped my perspective. A lot of my work explores identity, trauma, and healing. I want my art to encourage others to be their full, authentic selves.
In my process, I work with all kinds of materials, like acrylics, house paint, dye, and found objects. I love combining visual art with music, dance, and even yoga-inspired movement, especially during live performances. Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to perform and exhibit in over 75 events throughout Florida, Georgia, and New York. I also teach at the Tampa Museum of Art, which allows me to share what I’ve learned and help others tap into their creativity.
For me, art is more than a career, it’s a way to connect, heal, and express the layered parts of who I am.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It hasn’t always been a smooth road. Like many artists, I’ve faced my share of challenges—both personal and professional. Growing up, I often felt like I didn’t fully belong. Being one of the only Asian students in my school, I dealt with cultural misunderstandings and microaggressions that made me question my identity. That sense of “otherness” stayed with me and influenced the themes I now explore in my art.
On the professional side, pursuing a career in the arts comes with its own hurdles. There were times when I doubted myself and felt pressure to take a more “stable” path. I’ve had to juggle multiple jobs, figure out how to price my work, and navigate the logistics of building my own canvases and transporting large pieces to shows. There’s also the emotional toll that comes with putting your most vulnerable thoughts and feelings out into the world.
But I’ve learned that those struggles are part of the process. They’ve helped shape my voice and make my work more honest and impactful. Every obstacle has pushed me to grow, not just as an artist, but as a person.
As you know, we’re big fans of ETA Studios. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
I’m the founder of Emily Tan Art – now under the DBA ETA Studios, a multidisciplinary creative studio based in Tampa, Florida. My work spans abstract painting, live performance art, DJing, and art instruction. I specialize in large-scale, hand-built canvases, vibrant color palettes, and immersive experiences that blend visual art with music and movement.
What I Do:
Abstract Painting: I create expressive, large-scale works using acrylics, house paint, dye, and found materials. Every artwork is deeply personal and intentional.
Live Paint Performances: I perform live at events, festivals, and galleries, integrating painting with music, dance, and yogic movement. These performances are designed to be immersive and emotionally resonant.
DJ Services: Music is a huge part of my creative identity. I DJ at events and often combine sets with live painting, creating a multisensory experience.
Art Instruction: I teach classes and workshops, including at the Tampa Museum of Art, helping others tap into their creativity and explore their artistic voices.
Custom Work: I offer commissions for murals, paintings, and installations tailored to personal or commercial spaces.
What Sets Me Apart:
My brand is rooted in authenticity, healing, and cultural identity. As a Chinese-Filipino and Slovakian artist, I use my work to explore themes of belonging, trauma, and transformation. I’m known for my hands-on approach and for performances that merge art and music into a single, expressive language.
What I’m Most Proud Of:
I’m proud of creating a space, both physically and emotionally, where people feel inspired to be their true selves. Whether through a painting, a class, or a live show, my goal is to help others reconnect with their creativity and feel seen.
Offerings:
Custom paintings and murals
Live paint performances
DJ services
Art classes and workshops
Private event collaborations
You can explore my work or reach out for bookings at www.emilytan.art.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.emilytan.art
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emilytan_art/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/emtanART/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@emilytanart3479/videos
- Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/etastudios
Image Credits
Tyler Ammons, Jen Naugle.
