Charlotte Houlihan - Bio

Bio

Charlotte Houlihan is an expressive figurative painter whose work is defined by playful exploration of colour and lusciousness of paint. She is a mother to two children in a neurodiverse household where she juggles her roles as artist, tutor and primary carer. People, the figure and human nature are important themes. Her work has been longlisted for the Jacksons Painting Prize, RWA and included in The New English Art Club annual exhibitions. She is a member of Oxford Art Society.

Artists Statement

A large part of what compels me to paint is exploring my understanding of humanity and where I fit within it. I tend to paint what interests me. It’s a deeply selfish process. I need to feel a connection of sorts to a subject. I try to follow my instincts and let the work lead me, working spontaneously, enjoying the movement of the paint so that mistakes become part of the story. I love the process of translating three dimensions to two and the truths that arise from making those observations. I am fascinated by people - painting is as much about understanding human expression and interaction as anything else. Working from life has always been important, there’s a tension you can feel while you’re painting and I enjoy losing myself in the unpredictability of a painting put together in the moment. However, I hate my work to stand still, and as it has evolved so has my process. My sketchbook is my companion to all my classes and is filled with quick studies of the model, my students and family. From these small beginnings collages and paintings evolve and I lose myself translating drawing into collage and paint, each step moving me a little further from reality and into the unknown. A place that is uncomfortable and exciting in equal measure.