EME Art Laboratory

How did this place come about and what made it different from the start?
EME Laboratorio de Arte was born in August 2020, in the midst of the pandemic, at a time when everything seemed to be at a standstill. This space was formerly an art gallery, but the need to reinvent itself opened up a new possibility: discovering that photography and the reproduction of artwork could become a way to continue working with artists, even in the most uncertain times.

If someone is coming in for the first time, what should they not miss?
Anyone visiting for the first time shouldn't miss the wall where we display print proofs; it's like a collage of all the projects that have come through here. It's also worth taking a look at the collection of artworks we have in the office, most of them pieces by artists who collaborated with eMe art space. The space is tidy and serene, with well-defined work areas. We've created a very welcoming atmosphere, and that's usually what surprises first-time visitors the most.

What part of the day, space, or creative process do those who work here enjoy the most?
What we enjoy most is the tranquility of the space, which allows each of us to find our own rhythm: sometimes with background music, sometimes amidst laughter and conversation when we're all together. The atmosphere is light, welcoming, and flexible, which allows the creative process to flow without pressure. More than a workplace, it's a space where it's easy to concentrate, collaborate, and enjoy what we do.

What has been an interesting challenge that has made you rethink something about the project?
We went through a period that forced us to rethink the project from the ground up: reorganizing processes, redefining priorities, and rethinking the way we worked. Over time, new people joined the team, and together with them, we learned to trust in rebuilding and to understand that reinventing ourselves can also be a way to grow.

What influence, idea, or reference continues to shape the way you work today?
We continue to be guided by the idea of ​​supporting artists and creators in their creative processes. From the beginning, we have worked with the intention of attending to every detail and offering a space where image, technique, and collaboration feel close together. This pursuit of quality and a human touch is the benchmark we continue to use for decision-making and for our daily growth.

What place, project, or person has inspired you recently and why?
Lately, we've been very inspired by the artists and students who come to us with their projects. When they come to review their work with us, a very creative exchange takes place: we can suggest ideas, work out details, and experiment together. This collaboration motivates us a lot because it reminds us why we do what we do and allows us to contribute something real to each project.

Is there an object, corner or detail of the place that has a story that few people know?
The display case where we keep the portfolios of prints created by the artists in collaboration with La Trampa and Taller Gráfica Bordes. It is a pleasure and a great source of pride for us to preserve them and share them with anyone interested. Each of these portfolios represents the care, skill, and dedication that went into the projects created at eMe art space.

If this project were a city, a book, or a record, which would it be and why?We envisioned it as one of those small, creative, and peaceful towns, where everything moves at a relaxed pace, but there's always something interesting happening. A place with workshops, studios, quiet cafes, and a vibrant artistic scene. Because that's how we work here: unhurriedly, with a personal touch, and letting each project develop in its own time.

If your space could invite someone to collaborate for a day, who would it be and what would you do together?
We're interested in working with photographers who are passionate about analog photography. We'd love to collaborate with them on reviewing and producing their portfolios, experimenting with tests, sharing processes, and giving them a firsthand look at how an image is created from scratch. It would be a collaborative experience where everyone learns and creativity flows freely.

TEAM:
Minú Paredes
Director of EME Laboratorio de arte

Laura Herrera
Laboratory manager and assistant director

Patricio Malagon
Head of editing, printing and analog lab

Alfonso Bezaury
Editing and printing manager

Felipe Icaza
Production assistant