Artist Statement:

The human body can be represented in layers, the inner sameness of skin and bones contrasted by the outer layer that makes up the features that we become recognised by. My body of work aims to highlight the uniqueness that makes up the same skeleton that connects each individual. The work is inspired by Vanitas artworks of the early 17th century; the use of harsh shadowing and realistic representation are what inspired the realistic style of painting and drawing used in my body of work. The artwork includes drawings in black and white on paper, layered by acrylic paint on perspex. Both paint and pencil are used in a realistic style to capture the specific and unique features of the subject matter. The overall concept for my body of work is to highlight the physical features that make a person stand out. I’ve used the features of people within my life that have been most prominent to me in shaping who they are to myself, these features are bright, painted to juxtapose the dark, harsh, black and white of the skeletons.