Emily Rice (b. 2002) is a mixed media artist based in Cape Town, South Africa. She completed Bachelors in Fine Art from Michaelis School of Fine Art in 2024 (graduates ceremony, March 2025).
Her work explores the delicate yet powerful structure of vulnerability and the balance between fragility and strength. Focusing on the manipulation of repurposed textiles and scrap fabric, she integrates plaster and transforms fabrics into new textures and interpretations. Constantly experimenting with various methods of working with and creating new textiles.
Rooted in the enjoyment of the creative process, her practice embraces play, allowing her to create immersive experiences that speak to the vulnerability inherent in personal growth. Her practice centers on the therapeutic nature of creation, using tactile materials to engage both the body and mind, transforming ordinary fabrics into vessels of expression.
Through her work, Emily aims to invite the viewer into a space where fragility is celebrated, encouraging a deeper reflection on the strength that comes from embracing vulnerability.
Solo exhibitions:
2024 — Homage to Her: Unravelled and Reborn — Solo Exhibition (final 4 year exhibition), Michaelis School of Fine Art, Cape Town, South Africa
Selected group exhibitions:
2025 — Uncurated Exhibition, Art.b Gallery, Cape Town, South Africa
2025 — SASOL New Signatures Finalist Exhibition, Pretoria Art Museum, Pretoria, South Africa
2025 — KAYA Cafe Curation Cycle (April - June) — Group Exhibition, KAYA Café, Cape Town, South Africa
2024 — Michaelis Grad Show 2024 — Group Exhibition, Michaelis School of Fine Art, Cape Town, South Africa
Awards and competitions:
2025 — SASOL New Signatures Finalist
2024 — Dean’s Merit List — Michaelis School of Fine Art, University of Cape Town, BA Fine Art
2019 — Visual Art Subject Award — Pinelands High School, Cape Town, South Africa
Selected features:
2025 — SASOL New Signatures Catalogue
2025 — FOUNDÈ Magazine, Independent digital publication
2024 — Michaelis School of Fine Art Grad Catalogue: Featured Artist
2024 — Graduate Profile: University of Cape Town, Faculty of Humanities, Michaelis School of Fine Art