Artworks by Sal Jones

My paintings focus on our relationship with representation, they explore human reaction and empathy on a personal level, by capturing a glance, a look, an emotion that unites us. I am particularly drawn to a gesture captured rather than conventional poses, those unguarded moments; I work from photographs and found images, inspired and influenced by cinematography. The subjects are mostly women (often fictional or notorious).

I select the subjects and their expressions for that instant of sensitivity, a social or cultural relevance; something we can relate to as viewers. These will often defy the usual portrait genre and gender stereotype.

Sal paints, subjects in states of emotional tension; their expression is heightened by gestural painting and intense colour. The artist draws inspiration from sources such as film, media and popular culture. The titles, quoted from dialogue, draw the viewer into conversation, intimate or confrontational, these encounters feel personal.