Canberra artist Jess Cochrane redefines femininity in modern culture

A stunning artwork demands attention in any room; and a piece that uses bold colours and strong, commanding lines truly makes you appreciate the artistic message behind that focal point hanging on the wall.

Canberra artist Jess Cochrane combines a vibrant palette, the female form and a strong pop-culture message behind every work, turning heads around the country and making imperfection on-trend.

As an early career artist Jess’ visual interpretation of femininity in popular culture shows an understanding of society that extends far beyond her years and delves not only into the social aspects of today but also the psychological perplexities of everyday women.

“It’s a rejectionist style of portraiture creating space for a more diverse and inclusive culture around what is considered good or beautiful or cool among modern society,” says Jess.

Jess has become known for her broad brush strokes defacing photography in an undeniably powerful statement that demands attention. In 2014 her debut body of work Pretty Ugly was nominated for the National Graduate Show at PICA, Perth and since then her work has been in demand, influencing Jess’ move to a Sydney studio in a bid to “work smarter, not harder”.

Looking around Jess’ workspace you’ll find a bevy of indoor plants against a backdrop of white walls, filled with natural light and portraits in process. She works best in a busy environment, oddly searching for a sense of fear to know that she is on to something great.

“I get inspiration from the women I know and see day to day. I try to live in a state where the next project or next goal I’m working towards scares me a little bit. That’s how you progress and grow as an artist or creative,” she says.

Known to many as “the girl that paints over photographs,” it’s refreshing to see today’s idea of feminine beauty turned on its head to reflect the angst that the idea of perfect generates in the everyday woman.

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“I think a lot of people get satisfaction out of the anti-perfection within the work. It’s satisfying to look at something that is beautiful because it’s imperfect in this day and age.”

Although the idea of painting over photographs seems simple, when we ask about her artistic process, it becomes clear that their is more to her artwork then meets the eye.

“There is a lot of planning and organising that goes into creating a piece. There is a photographic process, an editing and printing process and then the painting process; each requiring a different skill set,” she says.

As a young female artist Jess urges locals to stop and think before selecting their next piece of artwork.

“Support women in the arts and independent artists because they’re way more special than anything you can hang in your home that’s from IKEA.”

Follow Jess Cochrane on Instagram

@jesscochranepaints_

http://jesscochrane.com/