“What are little girls made of? Sugar and spice, and everything nice, that’s what little girls are made of”, so the old nursery rhyme says. Or are they? American-born, Hong Kong-based illustrator Emily Eldridge doesn’t see it that way. Sweet & Sour references the whimsical yet cheeky nature of Emily’s painting style. Predominantly female figures may look sugary sweet, but they’re tarts too, with an unexpected sour shock to the tongue.    Emily’s characters and subject matter are not only meant to explore notions of beauty, but evoke a sense of edginess, attitude, and swagger. Hidden stories lie behind each subject, pushing the viewer to consider, “Who are these figures? What do they do? Where do they live?” These are no wallflowers, but women with personality, inhabiting a fantastical illustrated space where they can play, adventure and explore.

Rubbish and everyday materials are repurposed into objects of art; paintings are created on cardboard and plywood; and playful figures gaze out from their imaginary spheres. Fashion magazines; repeat pattern, observations of Hong Kong life and unusual color schemes all fall into play. Explore Emily’s world with the new exhibition Sweet & Sour: An Illustrated World at the New Gallery on Old Bailey.

Cocktail Reception: March 3, 2011 from 6:00 – 8:30p.m.