My drawings are an investigation of the beauty of femininity and inner strength, intricately woven with elements from nature. Each piece depicts female figures immersed in biophilic relationships, forging harmonious bonds with plants and creatures from the natural world. This theme, rooted in my childhood experiences, inspires a deep affection for the interplay between women and nature. Creatures and plants – butterflies, sparrows, ivy and daisies–make repeat appearances throughout my work, because of my interest in their symbolic duality, to serve as design purposes, or because of interest in them.
My concepts arise from a deeply personal space, along with inspiration from books of mythology and botany, and rich storytelling of folk music. Often beginning with a decisively simple description, i.e. woman surrounded by ivy vines, that gradually unravels layers of complexity of its composition and rendering. As I engage with the design, an empathetic connection with the figure emerges, transforming her from an abstract shape into a fully realized individual. She becomes more than just a visual element; she embodies depth, beauty, and humanity.
Design plays a pivotal role in my artistic expression, inviting viewers to explore beyond the figure and engage with every intentional element of the composition. Departing from standard rectangular formats, inspired by artists like Ingres, Mucha, and Boldini, I embrace non-traditional polygons, such as circles, elongated rectangles, and ovals, to infuse my drawings with a unique dynamism. This departure opens new avenues for creative exploration, allowing me to experiment with design composition and the figure's relationship to the pictorial space.
My greatest influences would have to be John William Waterhouse from the Pre-Raphalite and Alphonse Mucha from Art Nouveau. I am enamored with their use of design and their study of beauty. Artists in both movements paid equal attention to designing the environment around the figure, furthering the emphasis of harmony and aesthetic cultivation.