Banner Series

Banner Series, mixed media on vinyl, Cotton in Manchester, 2022

Paintings tell a story of the second life of advertising banners, transformed into works of art. I use these discarded materials as canvases, giving them new meaning and artistic depth. This is an ongoing artistic experiment that pushes the boundaries of traditional painting practices.

Main Motif: Female Figures in Abstract Realms

The main motif of the series is figures, predominantly female. Silhouettes emerge from an abstract background, painted with expressive brush strokes. The figures are simultaneously ethereal and distinct, balancing on the edge of form and abstraction

Colour Palette: Intensity and Contrast

The colour palette is intense and contrasting. Deep greens and blues form the background for vibrant reds and yellows that bring the figures to life. This interplay of colours emphasizes the emotional dimension of the portrayals, suggesting the inner experiences of the women depicted.

Painting Technique: Texture and Dialogue

The painting technique exposes the texture of the banners, creating a dialogue between the medium and the image. Layers of paint and distinct brush marks build a dynamic surface that reflects the complexity of the female experience. The non-absorbent nature of the material forces me to adapt the technique, resulting in unexpected effects and happy accidents that become integral to the finished work.

Installation: Creating an Immersive Experience

The large-format works, presented as an installation, create an immersive environment. Monumental figures dominate the space, inviting the viewer to contemplate their strength and delicacy.

Thematic Exploration: Identity, Transformation, and Rebirth

This series is an aesthetic exploration and reflection on identity, transformation, and rebirth. By repurposing advertising banners into portraits of women, I comment on the role of femininity in the contemporary world, while simultaneously giving new life to materials destined for oblivion.

Unconventional Surfaces: Beyond Banners

The choice of unconventional surfaces extends beyond banners to other materials such as reclaimed wood or metal sheets. Each surface brings its history, influencing the final composition in unpredictable ways.

Artistic Innovation: Challenges and Opportunities

This approach reduces waste and injects new energy into the creative process, becoming a catalyst for innovation. The limitations and quirks of each surface push me to evolve my artistic practice constantly.

Contemporary Art Context: Blurring Boundaries

This artistic experiment aligns with a broader movement in contemporary art that seeks to blur the lines between high art and everyday materials. It challenges traditional notions of painting, encouraging viewers to reconsider the value and potential of discarded materials, while expanding the possibilities of artistic expression.

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Banner series
acrylic, mixed media, ink on vinyl,
200 x 95 cm, 2022-2023