Emma Lyons: Where Movement Meets Emotion on Canvas

Art has a way of bringing people together in the most unexpected ways. Last October, at the Stylist Symposium, I had the pleasure of meeting Emma Lyons, a Chicago-based artist whose bold, expressive work immediately drew me in. But beyond her stunning canvases, it was our instant connection that made the moment even more special. As we chatted, we discovered we had identical high school class rings—same year (2007), same stone color, same style. A sign, perhaps, that we were meant to cross paths.

Emma is one of those fun-spirited, magnetic people who truly embodies the art she creates. Her paintings are a celebration of movement, authenticity, and emotion, much like the energy she carries in every conversation. She blends abstract forms with figurative details, creating pieces that are both deeply personal and universally resonant. Whether through sweeping brushstrokes or layered textures, her work evokes a sense of freedom and self-expression—a reflection of the way she approaches life itself.

This connection became even more meaningful recently when my daughter was accepted into the Joffrey Ballet—an achievement that deserved to be commemorated in a truly special way. When I saw Emma’s work, I knew instantly that one of her pieces would be the perfect way to mark this milestone. Ballet is the ultimate expression of movement and grace, and Emma’s art captures that same fluidity and emotion. Now, every time I look at that painting, I’m reminded not just of my daughter’s incredible accomplishment, but of the power of art to tell our stories.

This is the wonderful piece that I gifted to my little ballerina!

Emma’s work is more than just something beautiful to hang on a wall—it’s an experience, a feeling, a testament to the beauty of being bold and true to oneself. Whether you’re looking for a piece that speaks to your own journey or simply want to surround yourself with art that moves and inspires, I highly recommend exploring her collection.