By choosing these two themes, Rachel Sharpe places her work as the latest in a long pictural history, starting with the first Christian iconography of the early middle ages through to late Renaissance biblical scenes for the “religious” paintings, and a later, more modern one that includes 17th century paintings of “Fêtes Galantes” by Watteau and the dancers of Degas for the “dance” paintings. Sharpe however, has embarked on a roundabout way to approach these two themes, choosing not to depict whole scenes, with their own narrative and message, but to paint small details thereof, focusing on and enlarging specific areas to exacerbate their dramatic value; as a result, her works become a sort of metonymy, forcing the audience to reflect on the essence of the actions represented.
Whilst Rachel Sharpe deploys a realistic and technically accomplished style, the composition of her paintings is unique, filling the canvas almost entirely with various elements in an unconventional way. Similarly, her palette is often unexpected: at times almost monochromatic or using nuances of the same color, and alternatively drawing inspiration from Renaissance chiaroscuro painters. Despite being self-taught, Sharpe consistently displays a deft use of traditional techniques and a capacity to develop a pictural language that is all her own.
Born in 1990 in Seattle, Rachel Sharpe now lives and works in Los Angeles. Her work was the object of two solo shows at De Boer Gallery (Los Angeles and Antwerp) and has participated in the Art Antwerp and NADA New York art fairs.
