Eva Mercer

I’m Cari "Eva" Mercer, a multifaceted artist whose journey has been shaped by a rich tapestry of life experiences. Born into a military family, I learned adaptability and resilience early on, values that have deeply influenced my creative and personal life. In my late teens and early twenties, I served in the Air Force as a Radio and Television broadcaster, a role that sharpened my communication skills and sparked my passion for storytelling. After transitioning out of the military, I pursued journalism, working as a photojournalist for a small newspaper in West Virginia, where I honed my ability to capture authentic, compelling moments.

In my mid-thirties, I discovered a love for portraiture and conceptual photography, which ignited a passion for creating posed compositions. More recently, I’ve embraced still life photography, exploring the interplay of shadow, texture, and light to reveal the beauty in everyday objects. My street photography celebrates the unscripted and unposed, capturing life as it is and inviting viewers to see the extraordinary within the ordinary. Alongside photography, I have also explored other mediums, including painting, sculpting, and drawing, further broadening my creative expression.

As a neurodivergent, menopausal woman and Air Force veteran, my art is deeply informed by my identity and life experiences. A survivor of sexual assault, domestic violence, and a religious cult, I channel my journey of healing and transformation into my work. Art has been both a sanctuary and a voice for my resilience, helping me process trauma while connecting with others who may see parts of their own story in my pieces.

Now settled in Central Pennsylvania, I’ve fully embraced my role as an artist, wife, and mother, drawing inspiration from the multifaceted layers of my life. Through my work, I aim to foster connection and healing, offering a message of hope, renewal, and the transformative power of creativity. Whether through the intimacy of a portrait, the subtle beauty of a still life, or the raw authenticity of street photography, my art seeks to inspire and remind others of the strength found in embracing one’s truth.

My work has been exhibited in galleries like the EVAC in NYC and Laguna Art Gallery in Laguna Beach, CA. As I continue to evolve and push the boundaries of my artistry, I remain committed to inspiring and engaging my audience, allowing them to find their own stories within my creations.

My career has evolved into a deep passion for portraiture, conceptual, and still life photography, as well as painting and sculpture. I skillfully blend technical expertise with creative vision to capture compelling stories across these diverse mediums. My approach to photography emphasizes the interplay of light, shadow, and composition—skills I have meticulously honed over the years.

In painting and sculpture, I explore themes that resonate deeply with my experiences and emotions, creating pieces that invite reflection and connection. Committed to excellence, I strive to produce evocative works that resonate on both personal and artistic levels, reflecting the unique narratives of those I portray.

I am eager to bring my distinctive perspective and refined aesthetic to new and challenging environments, ensuring that each project transcends mere execution and transforms into a meaningful artistic expression.