Experimenter. Painter. Surrealism-fanatic.

"My work is composed of images from my unconscious mind. I use a diverse range of media to depict surreal and intimate dreamscapes that house tactile vulnerability. Recently, my figures fester in corners: a place for solitude and deep thinking. I rely heavily on instinct in my practice. At this moment, I am most interested in finding hidden gems in common areas of life, such as my family heritage or the human figure."

Grace Umek is finishing her sophomore year at the Milwaukee Institute of Art and Design on a scholarship, majoring in New Studio Practice: Fine Arts. She is a multidisciplinary artist who indulges in traditional mediums and experiments with installation and digital 3D modeling. A painter at heart, she is enthralled by the work of Surrealism and Symbolism. She sees the unconscious as a vital tool in an artist's practice. 

Recently, Grace has experimented with 3D modeling and texturing in programs like Blender. Manipulating her dreams and memories of her grandfather's bathroom, she models eery and private environments for viewers. Her curiosity in the digital realm has led her to create 360° Virtual Reality videos and small walkthrough simulators with a team of creatives. 

Grace Umek attended Pius XI Catholic High School in Milwaukee, WI. There, she participated in Scholastic Art competitions and was awarded silver keys for a drawing portfolio and selected works.