Eilise is a painter based in the UK.

My paintings explore the ordinary moments that are often experienced passively, such as opening a window, brushing your hair, or falling asleep with your hair slides still in. Our surroundings speak to us, and by reflecting on them through drawings and writings I understand more about myself and the people around me. I aim to express this by translating these writings into paintings. I hope the artwork allows the viewer to reflect objectively on themselves, their memories, and everyday experiences.

The paintings are based on the imagery from my dreams, experiences, and the imagination. I believe in the strong connection between literature and art. Poetic, philosophical, and fictional texts also influence my practice.

I draw on the archetypal and individual representation of women throughout European art history to explore ideas surrounding femininity, the gaze, and the self. The female figures are shown in states of reverie and pensiveness, yet are comfortably alone, or gaze directly at the viewer. 

With our increasingly fast-paced, digital lifestyles and the impact felt by the pandemic, I became interested in the representation of individuals, their dreams, and the importance of introspection. Young people have voiced their worries about achieving their dreams, however modest, with an uncertain future ahead. By evoking a tranquil, romantic mood, I aim to convey the hope found through striving for growth and understanding, whether that be between two people, yourself and your inner being or between humanity and nature.