I took my Power in my Hand

I work from created and found photographs and film stills. In this image I was particularly taken with the way that the model looks suspended in time, as if pausing, and extraordinarily holding a bubble that is slowly diminishing by releasing smaller bubbles through the water. It lead me to think of Emily Dickinson's poem “I took my Power in my hand” - a poem about taking on both David and Goliath, but failing. It reminded me that at times in life we give something everything we’ve got but sometimes it’s just not enough. Despite this, we go on, we live another day safe in the knowledge we did our best. Regathering and restrengthening . I wanted to capture both her strength and her vulnerability using bright contrasting colours of teal and a beautiful red magenta. I have developed my style using contemporary art techniques such as expressionism and pop art. I love to give the surface of the painting lots of texture and shine, creating a sense of movement.
In this painting I've used professional 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.

I hope you enjoy my painting - a little reminder to stay resilient despite what curve balls we face and strike out on. Here is Emily Dickinsons poem... I took my Power in my Hand

I took my Power in my Hand—
And went against the World—
’Twas not so much as David—had—
But I—was twice as bold—

I aimed by Pebble—but Myself
Was all the one that fell—
Was it Goliath—was too large—
Or was myself—too small?

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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.