Bio

Vanessa Raw explores female identity and sexuality whilst turning the male gaze on its head. Using colour and gesture she transforms male-dominated pornographic imagery and combines with her own imagined and taken images, transforming the negative to that of something positive. As a woman painting women, she takes back the power.

Creating sensual and loving figures within peaceful surroundings, it's as if she's metamorphosing her own negative experiences and memories to that of new beginnings.  The landscapes in which the figures reside are experienced by Raw when she runs through them. Once a GB triathlete, being in her “body” is a large part of the work. The physicality of her gestures can be experienced through the flowing flora. She refers to both running and painting as moving meditation, a place where she feels at peace. 

Vanessa has a BFA from Loughborough University (2004) and has recently graduated from Turps painting school. Last year, she exhibited in London, Berlin, and Margate.

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