In this colleciton I am exploring questions and celebrating the diversity and defiance of some of the most influential celebrities of our time. From Weird Al to Katya, from Pink to Tim Curry in Rocky Horror Picture Show, these portraits showcase the artists' unique styles and perspectives, as well as the celebrities' personalities and messages. I aim to capture how icons challenge norms and expectations of fame, gender and identity. I use watercolor, a medium often associated with delicacy and subtlety to capture the boldness and complexities of past and current icons. Through the use of vibrant colors and expressive strokes, these watercolor portraits reveal the beauty and power of being different, being authentic, and being yourself.
Watercolor is my chosen medium, often associated with delicacy and subtlety. However, I challenge this perception by utilizing a heavy and plentiful approach. My technique involves a deliberate, painterly style where I often use my fingers to create a disheveled, expressive appearance. This non-traditional application of watercolor allows me to convey the boldness and complexities of my subjects. Each portrait is created with vibrant colors and dynamic strokes, capturing the beauty and power of being different and authentic. I start by sketching the subject lightly, then layer the watercolor to build depth and texture. The use of expressive strokes and finger painting adds an element of spontaneity and raw emotion to the artwork.
It is crucial to understand that my work is not just about capturing a likeness but about conveying the essence of the creative individuals. The deliberate, finger-painted strokes symbolize the imperfections and unique qualities that make each person extraordinary. My use of watercolor in a heavy-handed manner challenges the medium's typical associations and reinforces the themes of defiance and authenticity.