Ask the Artist: Cece Phillips
The beauty of the “Other Art Fair” in London is being able to see emerging artists right in front of their work. And if you ask the right questions you will receive a passionate response of their work’s inspiration. It is these personal shared accounts on why a certain material is used or geographical location referenced, that immediately connects the viewer to a painting. Or sometimes, you are immediately captivated by a work of art from a distance. So was the case when I saw Cece Phillips’ work.
I met eye to eye with a black woman in an ultra powerful pose wearing a striking mustard yellow suit (which even I would find difficult to pull off in the boardroom). The outfit of choice however, I deem was not the focal point. No, it was a sudden sense of empowerment which I felt and related to through the woman’s body language. As a woman of color myself, I saw an ode to women rising in the workplace. It was indeed a peculiar sight, as it is not often I see these images in art renderings.
When I told Cece my observations, she enthusiastically told me she had reimagined some of the historical archival writing and photographs she was working with. She described the powerful stances of the women in her other pieces, eluding to historical photographs of men in power. Our conversation on her art gave me a glimpse of her creative process. In my opinion, this art is challenging historical stereotypes and uplifting women of color for generations to come. A girl ten years from now will look at these paintings and hopefully see it as a reflection of the current society. This is where art intersects with activism. No words are needed. A viewer can simply raise their own opinions and be compelled to think differently.
I particularly favour the piece, “Plotting”. What could they be plotting I ask?Now that is up for interpretation.
Cece’s talent has been taken notice as she just wrapped up her first solo exhibition at HOME by Ronan McKenzie earlier this year. Interestingly, Cece took the big step to switch from an advertising career last year to pursue painting. Similar to the strong figures in her oil paintings, her own story is an inspiration in pursuing passions and aspirations. She is definitely one emerging artist to keep an eye on.
Check out her work on Instagram to see more.
Let me know your thoughts!