Jude Wainwright

"Self-portraiture frames the basis of my work. I paint as a form of escape, releasing an idea, a dream or a memory realised on canvas. Much like diary entries, the paintings serve as keepsakes, a space for reflection and rumination. I am Inspired by the performance of rituals as a means of therapy. Rituals have the ability to empower us – to help us learn, grow and reconnect with ourselves. The idea of regaining ‘control’ through creating repetitive habits in order to soothe feelings of anxiety is something I'm drawn to. The creation of the works themselves additionally provides me with a form of meditation – A sense of control is gained with the repetition of the harlequin patterns (worn by some of the subjects), a ritual that features across many of my works."