Untamed

Katherine’s debut solo show was held at the Institute of Contemporary Arts on September 8th.

Displaying 20 portraits of endangered species as her sitters, Katherine confronted the viewer with the environmental reality of our times. 10% of the proceeds raised from the sales of this artwork series were donated to Space for Giants.

“Capturing these animals in paint is one way that I feel I can have immediate control over a devastating reality”

“These animals may soon no longer be with us, but they can continue to be so in a small way in my paintings whilst also raising awareness for charities and policies that can help protect them.”

In traditional art historical fashion, exploring the power of portraiture and the role of sitter and artist, Katherine places these animals on a pedestal in the position of sitter. We are given an opportunity to get to know these animals, still and quiet before us, an option not afforded in the wild.

These paintings show not only the animal but also their home, which is now also home to a variant of human and environmental changes that now no longer make it as hospitable. Each portrait shows the dark truth of the environment and its inhabitants that once kept them safe. Through this exhibition, Katherine hopes to bring to light these changes and inspire action.

This is truly an exhibition of contrast with animals that look distinctly human in their emotional portrayal, strong in their stature yet classed as vulnerable or even functionally extinct in their survival status, and the explosion of thick colourful impasto strokes that clash on the canvas, bringing their stories to light.