Ollie Valentine
UK based, figurative artist Olivia Valentine studied traditional portraiture in Florence for four years at Charles Cecil Studios. There, she learnt the old masters’ technique called the ‘sight-size’, method rooted in the practice of Van Dyke, Velasquez and Titian, based upon observing the model from a distance and to the scale of life whilst painting under natural light.
Since leaving Florence, Olivia has embarked on her own creative journey of self-expression drawing inspiration from different styles. Valentine makes use of flattened perspectives and undulating planes to create an altered perception of depth. Paired with the vivid chromatic palette of her backgrounds, this method leads to a unique juxtaposition that confers a playful aesthetic to the figures traditionally portrayed in the original masters’ technique.
The artist paints her sitters from life, focusing on capturing the fluidity and character of her subjects, with all of whom Valentine has a personal relationship. Exploring the value of friendship, through her canvases Valentine narrates a story of support, encouragement and comfort.
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Poppy Baynham
I work with collage, paints and pens. My colour pallet usually involves child like colours, for example; pinks, purples, and pastel colours. My work is very nostalgic and creates a feeling of youth and warmth. I try to put figures into most of my paintings for it to resemble me and my life.