Aniela Sobieski creates small oil paintings of surreal, dream-like situations. The artist is fascinated by the human impulse to self-decorate, an enchantment that’s present in every aspect of her portraits. These paintings operate as visual poetry, inspired by classical painting. 

Pensive young women, drawn in a style inspired by classical portraiture come to life in Aniela Sobieski‘s paintings. Preferring to superimpose natural elements that adorn the women’s faces and clothing reveal metaphors that upscale the profane and build a rich historical and cultural tension.

Embrancing both baroque paintings and contemporary styles, Aniela Sobieski embellishes women and the particular dog with elaborate makeup and sculptural accessories placed clearly to mask the subject’s features. Hiding the natural shape of the human physiognomy, the artist maps classic still lifes and sparse landscapes in her artworks.

See also: Regardt Van Der Meulen’s Steel Sculptures Adorn Fragmented Garments

It is my hope that these relationships speak to the tendency for nature and the human psyche to mirror each other

Aniela Sobieski aims to express emotions and different identities in her oil painting. Her portraits work as a symbiotic relationship between the subject and their lavish accessories since the subject provides an environment to the rest of the painting.

Aniela Sobieski is based in St. Paul, Minnesota, and has a solo show at Tory Folliard Gallery in Milwaukee!

See also: Regardt Van Der Meulen’s Steel Sculptures Adorn Fragmented Garments