And bowing - with a Mighty look - At me - The Sea withdrew

The original image for this painting came from a photoshoot of my female model underwater. This image drew my attention with the reflections, the poise of the girl, and the beautiful way that she was captured in the light. Her dress and jewellery and the reflections above take the eye on a journey from her hands throughout the painting. The light highlighting the hands and chest contrasted against the colourful watery background captures the softness of the water and this colourful light filled space. Use of contrasted colours such as bright orange and blue helps to guide the eye. I have developed my style using contemporary art techniques such as expressionism and pop art. The resultant painting is a wonderful reflection of poise and feminine allure. Named after an Emily Dickinson poem "I started early - Took my dog" where Dickinson refers to the sea rising along her body and then withdrawing.
In this painting I've used high quality artist acrylics and mediums. As with most of my paintings I personally mount it on an "inbuilt" frame and then paint the painting as the frame and board as one unit. The painting is fitted with a wire and two D rings and is ready to hang. The painting mount is made of wood and can be subject to environmental influences such as humidity which may create short term movement in the board - hence my recommendation to hang the painting directly to the wall on the D-rings, not from a single wire.

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Kerry Inkster is a distinguished visual artist celebrated for her profound exploration of women’s stories and experiences through mixed media. Her mission is to make art for quiet women who've been told to be smaller, so they can remember they have something powerful and valuable to offer the world. At the heart of her artistic practice lies an unwavering commitment to amplifying narratives that reflect the depth, complexity, and resilience inherent in womanhood.

Through her underwater photography, Inkster captures the transformative relationship between women and water—a powerful symbol of emotion, fluidity, and rebirth. Each photograph invites viewers to engage in introspection while revealing the challenges, triumphs, and intricacies that shape women's identities.

Her painting practice further delves into the complex tapestry of women's lives, utilising colour, form, and texture to embody the myriad emotions that accompany their diverse experiences. The layered canvases serve as a visual language, offering audiences a space for catharsis, inviting them to confront their relationships with themselves, femininity, power, and vulnerability.

Inkster's innovative techniques and emotive narratives foster meaningful dialogue surrounding gender and empowerment, while her commitment to community engagement includes volunteering at local galleries to nurture emerging talent.

A graduate of The South Australian School of Art / University of South Australia, Inkster has established herself as a significant figure in contemporary art, showcasing her work nationally and internationally in esteemed galleries and exhibitions, including an Artist Residency with Comebeck Ltd in Germany. A multiple award finalist, with her work housed in notable collections, she remains a pivotal voice in the art world.

Kerry Inkster currently resides in Fish Creek, Victoria, Australia, where she continues to evolve her artistic journey, dedicated to illuminating women’s voices and experiences.