Tracey Emin British, b. 1963

Dame Tracey Karima Emin, born on July 3, 1963, in Croydon, Greater London, is a prominent British artist renowned for her autobiographical and confessional artworks. She employs a diverse range of media, including drawing, painting, sculpture, film, photography, neon text, and sewn appliqué, to explore deeply personal themes. 

Emin’s education in the arts began at the Medway College of Design (1980–1982), followed by a Bachelor of Arts in Printmaking from Maidstone College of Art (1983–1986). She further honed her skills by obtaining a Master of Arts in Painting from the Royal College of Art in London (1987–1989). 

In the 1990s, Emin emerged as a leading figure among the Young British Artists (YBAs), a group celebrated for their provocative and boundary-pushing works. Her piece “Everyone I Have Ever Slept With 1963–1995” (1995), a tent appliquéd with the names of everyone she had ever slept with, garnered significant attention. This was followed by “My Bed” (1998), an installation featuring her unmade bed surrounded by personal items, reflecting a period of emotional turmoil. This work was shortlisted for the Turner Prize in 1999. 

Throughout her career, Emin has maintained a confessional approach, delving into themes of sexuality, personal history, and emotional expression. Her contributions to the art world have been recognized with numerous accolades, including being elected as a Royal Academician by the Royal Academy in 2007. In 2024, she was honored with a damehood for her services to art. 

Despite facing significant health challenges, including a cancer diagnosis in 2020, Emin continues to produce evocative and impactful art. Her recent works often explore themes of vulnerability and resilience, reflecting her personal experiences and ongoing journey. 

Emin currently divides her time between London, the South of France, and her hometown of Margate, where she remains an influential and active figure in contemporary art.