ABOUT

Sumner is an artist based in Western North Carolina and a New Media student at UNC Asheville. Art has been a part of Sumner’s life since childhood, where her mother’s passion for it surrounded her growing up and shaped her creative path.

ARTIST STATEMENT

Sumner values research, structure, and systems. She creates information and data-driven art, using analysis and experimentation to transform complex ideas into clear, engaging visual experiences. Her practice is rooted in curiosity and problem-solving: she explores patterns, relationships, and structures within data and information, then translates them into visual forms that are both thoughtful and accessible. By combining methodical research with creative experimentation, she aims to reveal connections, spark insights, and invite viewers to engage with ideas in new ways. Her practice emphasizes interactive, intuitive, and responsive design, allowing viewers to actively explore information rather than passively observe it.

EXPERIENCE

BLACK MOON INK

DEC 2025-PRESENT

ASHEVILLE, NC

  • Assisted with daily production tasks including filing, inventory management, and tracking materials.
  • Inspected garments and finished prints for defects, misprints, and quality issues
  • Mixed inks and prepared materials for screen printing processes.
  • Assisted with screen preparation, including burning and setting up screens
  • Provided general assistance across studio operations, contributing to smooth workflow and efficiency.

LIGHTING BOLT INK

JUL 2025-NOV 2025

ASHEVILLE, NC

  • Assisted with daily production tasks including filing, inventory management, and tracking materials.
  • Inspected garments and finished prints for defects, misprints, and quality issues
  • Mixed inks and prepared materials for screen printing processes.
  • Assisted with screen preparation, including burning and setting up screens
  • Provided general assistance across studio operations, contributing to smooth workflow and efficiency.

WOLFGANG WOLFF FOUNDATION

FEB 2025-JUL 2025

WEAVERVILLE, NC

  • Assisted in the design and development of interactive digital exhibitions.
  • Collaborated on projects that combined art, technology, and audience engagement.
  • Supported the creation of immersive experiences that made complex ideas accessible to diverse audiences.
  • Learned to work creatively in a collaborative environment, developing strong interactive communication skills.
  • Gained hands-on experience in digital exhibition design and interactive media.

CONTACT

Email: sumnerelysia@gmail.com