My work explores play as a formative aspect of human connection- requiring presence, sensitivity, and an intuitive read of another person. This series depicts dynamic scenes of physical play through figurative oil paintings, capturing the interaction of individuals with each other and their environment. I am motivated by my personal relationships and childhood experiences and this is explored through my approach to research and photography, informing subjects on personal, archival imagery and centering people in my life. There is joy in being playful, but it’s also a complex back and forth, playing along boundaries, demonstrating an intuitive read of the other person. This series aims to embrace these moments of presence between people, to encourage connection and understanding. These playful interactions are highlighted through light, glare and vivid underpaintings, creating an atmosphere of warmth and movement that speaks to the vitality and spontaneity that is inherently present in play.
