Sarah-Jane Szikora
Painted in vibrant, sweet shop
colours, Sarah-Jane's quirky and loveable gingerbread men offer
us an amusing take on the human condition that challenge even
the sternest individual not to break into a smile. Each painting
is characterised by intricate detail and a humorous individuality
that makes Sarah-Jane's work instantly recognisable. This distinctive
style is achieved almost exclusively in oils, which give an
all-important richness to her palette.
Sarah-Jane comments: "Many things inspire me. Looking at
great art generally fires me up for a new piece.Among
my favourite artists are the awesome Stanley Spencer, L.S Lowry,
Rene Magritte and I love the recent surrealist paintings of
Michael Sowa.
Occasionally I get sparks from film or TV, and I like to keep
my eye on fashion and interior design. These provide the latest
'looks', which I try and use to keep my paintings fresh.”
Sarah-Jane graduated from art collecge with distinction having
specialised in illustration. There followed a small business
venture making 3D sculptures and a first foray into the world
of art publishing. In 1993 she decided to dedicate herself to
her dream of working as an artist, and has done so ever since.
The North East of England has always been Sarah Jane's home,
and she now lives and works in Gateshead.
Galleries across the UK and more recently the USA, have mounted
acclaimed exhibitions of the engaging gingerbread man and his
friends.
