Eileen Marie Yvonne Backman

EmyBackArt

Local Artist

Hello, I am Eileen Backman, and for the past 6 years since my son went off to University, I have been rediscovering my inner artist! I have spent my life in various professions — preschool teacher, program director for a psychiatric treatment facility, fitness instructor and paralegal for my soulmate and love of my life, attorney husband (which I still do currently). But more and more I am filling my “empty nest” by creating art.

As a child I loved drawing in pencil, but since jumping back into art, I have honed my skills in various medium: watercolor, watercolor and ink, acrylic, pastel, alcohol ink, digital art, linocuts and even some pottery! I am drawn to a variety of subject matter, but have found a niche here in Bloomington-Normal in celebrating the local landmarks, business and landscapes through my house and building portraits.

In July of 2021, I had the good fortune to become a co-owner of Main Gallery 404, a small low profit gallery that represents over 45 local artists (including myself!). Through this experience I have gained so much knowledge and motivation, and my art practice has taken off. I paint nearly every day as my time allows, and regularly take commissioned work.

I published my first book of local art prints in 2024, and followed that up with a second even larger volume in 2025.

My work is available through this website, and in person at Main Gallery 404. I also have images of much of my work available for purchase as prints or on products through Fine Art America (eileen-backman@pixels.com).

If you are interested in a commission or purchase, please reach out to me:

Email Address: eileen@emybackart.com

Follow me on facebook @eileenbackmanart or #EmybackArt

Follow me on Instagram @emybackart

Follow me on TikTok @emybackart

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