My artistic practice centres on exploring themes of femininity and personal identity within artistic representations of women, particularly in relation to challenging traditional European portraiture and the intertwined presence of the male gaze. Utilising traditional painterly styles imbued with contemporary narratives, my work investigates the intersection of historical European influences with popular culture and feminist theories as a means of exploring the complexities of young womanhood within modern day society.
Drawing from literary and visual references, as well as personal relationships and lived experiences, I work from unedited photographs and video stills, celebrating the women around me in everyday, even trivial moments, offering intimate, unidealised portrayals that honour the emotional complexities and individuality of my subjects.
A central theme throughout my practice is the contrast of control and liberation. My raw, unedited reference images are meticulously transformed through a restrained, labour intensive painting process. I further disrupt traditional methods by mixing makeup into my oil paints, a deliberate gesture that both critiques and celebrates femininity. Through this artistic approach and my inclusion of personal details and accessories within each painting, my work reflects the ongoing emotional and social labour of young women wile contributing to the ongoing dialogue surrounding contemporary womanhood.
