Sarah Roszell

My practice as a figurative oil painter is rooted in my experiences with sexual assault, complicated family dynamics, and chronic health conditions. Through my paintings, I can connect with people and communicate difficult topics, specifically experiences I feel you must have lived to understand. Moments from my life are portrayed to the audience through vulnerable self-portraiture, the metaphoric and literal use of light in the darkness, and the inclusion of historical artistic references. Taking inspiration from renaissance masters like Caravaggio, George de La Tour, and Rembrandt, I use their chiaroscuro and warm lighting in my own pieces. Newer works have begun to reflect my progression on my healing journey. Using what I've learned about color, temperature, and atmosphere, I explore new themes like the stages of grief and inner child work. Sorrowful expressions turn to gratitude, and contempt turns to contemplation. The process of creating is a cathartic one. Covering the canvas, I am addressing each part carefully, a part of the work, and a part of myself, with the intention of leaving behind the pieces I no longer need and bringing with me a new perspective. I find that my practice is growing with me, as it should, ebbing and flowing as I mourn who I used to be and accept who I am becoming.