Vanessa Dobrzanska

Immersed in London’s vibrancy for several years, I revelled in its diversity, forming friendships with people from different backgrounds. Navigating my artistic journey, I highlight these experiences, infusing each brushstroke with not only the essence of human connection but also the chaos inherent in human relationships. My deliberate choice to combine soft oil paint with the unbridled energy of oil pastels mirrors the complexities of friendship—the delicate balance between tranquillity and intensity. Each stroke and hue applied in this body of work is of personal significance, often an expression of the marks left on my life by certain relationships. These paintings aren't just portraits; they're snapshots frozen in time, captured quickly from various moments I shared with the subjects. Throughout this creative process, my sketchbook has been my trusted companion, documenting snapshots of my friends, alongside creating monoprints, sketches, and quick observational paintings from references and from life. I opted for these fleeting snapshots over more structured studio photoshoots to better encapsulate the nostalgia and authenticity of my interactions. Through this, I delved deeper into the uniqueness of each person and encounter. Externally, I confronted the subconscious prejudice, while internally, I explored people’s expressiveness, revealing layers of identity and interrelation.