Where Physics and Art Collide with Amber Larks
Look again at that dot. That's here. That's home. That's us....The Earth is a very small stage in a vast cosmic arena....Our posturing, our imagined self-importance, the delusion that we have some privileged position in the Universe, are challenged by this point of pale light....The Earth is the only world known so far to harbor life...It has been said that astronomy is a humbling and character building experience....To me, it underscores our responsibility to deal more kindly with one another, and to preserve and cherish the pale blue dot, the only home we've ever known.
-EXCERPT FROM - MAY 11, 1996 - CARL SAGAN
What you see above is a small portion of Amber Larks’ favorite piece from Carl Sagan’s book, “Pale Blue Dot". This excerpt has always moved Amber and “relates to a lot of the themes I paint. My work aims to explore the connection between ourselves, humanity, our world, and beyond. It gives me chills and comforts me all at the same time.”
Growing up in Los Angeles, Amber’s artist father, David Larks, introduced her to painting when she was just a toddler. She stays inspired by keeping an open mind, getting lost in thought, and reading about other artists, past and present. She’s also been diving into physics, aiming to utilize her work
to explore much of what physics hopes to answer.
Many physicists have used art to aid them in visualizing the abstract aspects of the physical world. Many artists in turn have used physics to understand, utilize and experiment with their materials. Though one might not think it, each in turn have greatly supported one another’s growth and development, evolving together throughout history. Some have even said that in many ways art and physics are the same—both rooted in an understanding of nature and the properties of matter and energy.
It’s not surprising that Amber feels compelled to juxtapose her work with the findings of science and physics in particular. The way that science and art dance around each other, challenge one another, and offer new ways of thought is unparalleled. Amber explained her love of looking at her own creations
from both sides.
“They are both ways to understand the unknown.”
- Amber Larks
“I had watched "Beyond the Visible", a documentary on Swedish abstract artist, Hilma af Klint. That documentary and her work really opened my perspective on how science and art overlap. She had a background in mathematics and botany, and her family has a naval background. A short while into the documentary, I remember thinking ‘This lady is a scientist, and she's using art as a medium to explore science!’ which was super cool to realize. Before that documentary, I had always thought science and art were complete opposites, but that moment was a bridge between the two worlds for me. Even Einstein has a lot of quotes on the relationship between art and science. I love it, and it's something I'm really excited to explore more. A lot of my more surreal stuff is based on my love of Sci-fi. My dad introduced me to lots of Sci-fi movies as a kid, which have stuck with me my whole life and inspired a lot of my work as well.”
In many of Amber’s recent works found on her Instagram @amberlarks you will find pieces that may seem formless at first, yet they convey a profound sense of elegance through energy. She has in her own unique way depicted a deeper understanding of light and how it emanates throughout nature. When her works do show recognizable forms, often they are the sun, plants, animals, flowers, landscapes, reflections, portraits, and more—all subjects to be considered in the natural world.
In Amber's upcoming project, she has been collaborating with her sister, Cambria Larks, and her clothing brand, LUVRGURL CO. “This is our first collaboration together and we’re both really excited. She’s designing a summer collection based on my ‘Big "____" Energy’ series. The collection will
feature fabric created using three of my paintings.”
Amber’s intentions for these paintings (see page 14) were based around channeling new, positive energy into life—visualizing those energies and painting them into existence with the colors they channeled. Cambria Larks makes each piece of LUVRGURL CO clothing by hand, so every piece will be special and have that small business touch. According to Amber, “Right now, we’re both inspired by the 70’s, so definitely expect some psychedelic, good vibe designs!”
*You can keep an eye on the website luvrgurl.co or instagram @luvrgurlco for the big launch.
From Los Angeles to Seattle it’s no doubt that Amber is making her presence known. She has recently taken the leap to sign a studio lease here in Seattle—after the start of the pandemic, a lot of uncertainty, and a living room that began to overflow with canvas. Amber states it was one of the best decisions she ever made. CRÉATEUR cannot wait to see what Amber creates next in her beautiful studio. If there is anything to take away here, find a new way to look at your world and your creations. Challenge all perspectives. Dare the unknown. Whether it’s the unknown out there, or the
unknown within you, it’s worth taking a deeper look.
Amber’s 3 Ideas to Work By:
Stay true to your core. Everything from your artistic style to the choices you make and opportunities you seek.
Be both confident and humble. Put yourself out there and remember that rejection is part of the process. That said, network (be genuine) and apply to open calls. Too many artists are scared to do this and never make it as a result. I have a business degree and that background has been valuable for my art pursuits. I think having an art career is half making art and half knowing how to get your work out there and in front of the right people.
Make your dreams a priority. Our time here is limited, and dreams are worth it. If an art career is something you want to pursue, I would recommend finding a studio space outside of your living space if you are able. I realize this isn't always doable for everyone and there might be something that works better for each person, but this was a game changer for me. It gave me privacy, room to grow, and legitimacy. Honestly, people take you and your work seriously only when you take your career choice seriously. I think having a studio space is one of the big markers of this. It took me a few years to realize this and be in a place where I could afford a studio. It is in every way worth it and I am forever grateful to have the
space to create.
Want to discover more local creatives like Amber
Download the digital issue of CREATEUR Zine below.
Summer Issue 5
This season’s issue tells the story of local Seattle creatives Amber Larks, Bob Horan, and Aria Bird. Reflecting on this years resurgence from years past with guest writers Natalie Jamali and Chandra Gonsales. Prompting readers and creatives alike as to how they will cultivate a mindful and inspired resurgence of their own this summer. Discover new creatives and local small businesses in the back of each issues creative directory.
10% of this issue’s Zine sales goes directly back to the creatives featured within. Thank you for your support of Seattle’s ever growing creative community.
(Download link to digital issue expires 24 hours after purchase. Domestic Shipping Only.)
