"Little Fourteen-year-old Dancer" after Degas

I had been reading a book about Edgar Degas, one of my favourite artists, and noted a quote "...An artist has to be able to cut a great deal away...". Reflecting on this quote, and the years that COVID has forced us to change the way we do things, it struck me that this quote is applicable to all of us, artist or otherwise. We have all had to cut a great deal away during COVID, and in that process I have been reminded that in stripping back sometimes less is more. I had already chosen the base image of the little ballerina underwater for this painting (inspired by Degas love of ballet dancers), and in keeping the less is more approach I decided to leave the painting quite abstracted. I look at this painting now and am comforted by the reminder that it's more than okay to take the philosophy that "less is more".  

The canvas is covered it in Japanese Rice Paper to give a lovely texture that is akin to the movement on the surface of water. And, as with most of my paintings, I paint in layers - the background using action painting (expressionistic) techniques - pouring, dripping, splashing paint and involving my body in the painting process rather than just the paint brush. The figure was created using contemporary art pop art techniques and stencils, and a further layer of hand painting brought the foreground and background together. My palette is colourful and bright in this painting, to create an uplifted mood. Mostly consisting of complementary colours, I've also focused on using Degas favourite colours for his ballerina's - pink and yellow.

I particularly enjoy the push and pull of this piece, the joy of discovery that there is a figure in the painting.

Professionally stretched, signed on the back, ready to hang and enjoy!

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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.