Olivia Valentine British, b. 1994

UK based, figurative artist Olivia Valentine studied traditional portraiture in Florence for four years at Charles Cecil Studios. There, she learnt the old masters' technique called the 'sight-size', method rooted in the practice of Van Dyke, Velasquez and Titian, based upon observing the model from a distance and to the scale of life whilst painting under natural light.

Since leaving Florence, Olivia has embarked on her own creative journey of self-expression drawing inspiration from different styles. Valentine makes use of flattened perspectives and undulating planes to create an altered perception of depth. Paired with the vivid chromatic palette of her backgrounds, this method leads to a unique juxtaposition that confers a playful aesthetic to the figures traditionally portrayed in the original masters' technique.

Particularly interested in painting women, Valentine shows appreciation of the elegance and subtlety of the female form. In any portrait painting, she focuses on capturing the light, fluidity and character of the subject, as well as the chemistry between the artist and the model. Exploring the value and importance of friendship, especially with women, Valentine's sitters often have a personal relationship with her.