The World Is Still At War, But We're Still Dancing Photograph - Limited Edition of 15

ROMANTIC ESCAPISM fine art paintings channeling nostalgia and belonging.  My work stems from exploration of life’s natural happiness and challenges. Depicting an illustrated portrayal of organic, sensitive, thoughts and narratives alongside pop inflicted, vibrant imagery. I aim to look into the realness of human nature, emotions and indulgences whether they be deep rooted messages or light hearted, humorous pieces. Considering the fleeting flash of sentimental memories  and conversations that can be experienced at any age. Alot of my work can be a personal reflection and time for the viewer to think about where they are in their own life and where they want to go.  Themes of my work include the state of the world, politics, equality and consumerism whilst hinting at popular iconography and symbols. My most recent work has begun to explore in greater depth my feelings of just living in this world,  growing up, mental health and the challenges this can bring. You can find hints and narrative of my personal and relatable experience with these subjects scattered throughout my work. As someone who suffers from various invisible illnesses, I find myself as an artist intrigued by bringing out beauty from what may be seen as the opposite.  Colour filled pieces, act as a cheery facade of scaffolding over artworks holding sincere messages to its viewers. I like to juxtapose and subvert my themes not always in a completely literal sense so that viewers minds can pull out a personal meaning to themselves and question their own thoughts and stories. Exploring sense of self, belonging and nostalgia, messages of strength and positivity creep their way into my work, scratched into paint layers. Signs of encouragement - like a glimmer of sunshine hold the pieces up. Titles of my artwork such as "Flowers will grow again", "the sun will come back" and "the light through the dark" are prime examples. I bring flowers into my work as I find they are a nurturing and natural comfort to grow over my artwork and they mimic the human in many ways. I want people to look at my work and feel a moment, a memory, a comforting nostalgia. Using colours and subjects that feel like they are somewhat of a fleeting memory or sudden, unfiltered thought. Specially in my new and upcoming work where I have begin experimenting with my media applications and process more - binding the line of realism, figurativeness and abstract.