About the artist

Erin Askew’s work examines boundaries—those we set for ourselves and those imposed upon us—questioning who defines them and what drives their existence. Her art weaves together historical narratives and contemporary issues, offering a reflective exploration of work-life balance, marriage, health, and personal autonomy.

Inspired by the pioneering women of Abstract Expressionism, Askew channels their resilience and determination to spark meaningful conversations. As societal expectations and personal limitations continue to evolve, her work encourages dialogue and introspection.

Askew has exhibited her work in both Canada and the US.

Erin Askew is a painter originally from Toronto, Canada, who now resides in the mountains of Northern California. She holds a BFA with honors in Studio from the University of Western Ontario. For the past million years, Askew has worked as a graphic designer and creative director for large international brands. After a hiatus from fine art, she has returned with renewed passion, a fresh perspective, and more to say.

Artist Statement

My work examines the limits that hold us back and what it takes to break boundaries, take risks, rebuild when needed, and push ourselves forward. It's edgy, bold, and created to both tell women's stories and empower them. 

This exploration is deeply personal, shaped by my experiences with the unequal division of labor—first in my childhood home, later in my own relationships, and throughout a career in a male-dominated industry. Today, those themes intersect with the broader political climate. In my paintings, I challenge boundaries by breaking them: paint spills beyond the canvas, sometimes onto and even through the frame, while colors bleed and clash. I incorporate barbed wire as both material and metaphor—symbolizing restriction, resistance, boundaries, and rupture. Using a mix of mediums, I push structural limits and redefine the space they occupy. My work carries an urban edge—raw, expressive, and unapologetically bold.

Exhibitions

Covet Art Gallery, Remix exhibition, 07.2025, Oceanside, CA

KnK Contemporary, Blue note exhibit, 05.2025, San Francisco, CA

Covet Art Gallery, Abstract exhibition, 04.2025, Oceanside, CA

Laguna Art Gallery, Harvest group exhibit, 09.2024, Mission Viejo, CA

Las Lagunas Art Gallery, Limitless Online Exhibit, 09.2024, Laguna Beach California