Hollie O'Brien Hampshire, United Kingdom

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I am a Hampshire-based figurative painter and currently a Graduate in Residence at Chapel Arts. With a first-class honours degree from Arts University Bournemouth, my work focuses on blending historical imagery with contemporary representations of the female nude. My aim is to create an inclusive dialogue between the two, fostering empowerment and challenging traditional narratives.

I am a Hampshire-based figurative painter and currently a Graduate in Residence at Chapel Arts. With a first-class honours degree from Arts University Bournemouth, my practice explores the evolving representation of the female nude, blending art historical influences with deeply personal narratives.

My work challenges the traditional confines of the female nude, presenting a more fluid and ambiguous exploration of femininity through expressive painting. I aim to dismantle conventional notions of the body, advocating for a more inclusive and empowered portrayal of women—both as creators and subjects.

By reworking historical imagery, I breathe new life into past depictions, using vibrant colour and abstract techniques to invite contemporary reinterpretations. My paintings create a meditative space where viewers can engage with these reimagined forms, encouraging reflection on agency, identity, and the role of women in art. As I reinterpret historical imagery through my current influences, a dialogue emerges between past and present.

Through my art, I strive to foster an inclusive dialogue, elevating diverse voices and perspectives. My work contributes to a broader, more equitable conversation where every story can be seen, heard, and valued.