Essence is a collection of contemporary portrait paintings exploring femininity through the women who inspire me. Each work is based on a real woman from a different cultural background, celebrating not only her heritage, but also the quiet strength, softness and presence that make her uniquely herself.

Rather than attempting to represent entire cultures, the paintings honour individual stories. Through colour, texture and symbolism inspired by each woman’s heritage, the collection explores the beauty found in both our differences and our shared humanity.

Painted primarily in acrylic on wood, Essence marks the beginning of an evolving body of work celebrating women, identity and belonging.