Combining the lively, flesh-toned bodies of her models with vibrant, clean abstract shapes, patterns and lemon-green foliage, Joanna Pilarczyk’s paintings pay tribute to modern portraiture and contemporary figurative art.

Born in Poland in a post-Soviet country where everything seemed plain and uninspiring, she remembers her first glimpses of Western culture appearing on TV, which sparked her fascination with the multicultural world.

After moving to London years later and having encountered these unknown, exotic places and people of many cultures, she began to be significantly influenced by them.

Captivated by the vibrancy of paint, Pilarczyk uses a mixture of clashing colours, blending neon acrylics and oils to create sensual and striking portraits of acquaintances and friends within the community of North London. Her romantic compositions explore themes of relationships, self-awareness and acceptance. They convey melancholy and stillness, capturing a moment where the subjects are simply resting and free of responsibility.

In her recent work, Pilarczyk focuses on portraying mixed-race couples. To create these portraits, the artist discusses with her friends and models, delving into their experiences, love stories and struggles related to racism, sexuality and cultural diversity. She aims to give a voice to people seeking acceptance within their community.