Jenny Saville is a celebrated contemporary artist, known for her figurative paintings that challenge traditional ideals of beauty. Born on May 7, 1970, in Cambridge, England, Saville studied at Glasgow School of Art and the prestigious University of Cincinnati before making a name for herself in the art world.
What is Jenny Saville Known For?
Jenny Saville is best known for her large-scale oil paintings of flesh and bodies, often featuring women who challenge traditional standards of beauty and femininity. Her works are both bold and visceral, utilizing deep shades of reds and browns to represent the flesh in a way that is both hyper-realistic and abstract. Saville’s paintings often feature multiple figures, twisted and contorted in ways that challenge how viewers understand the human form.
Saville’s work is heavily influenced by the work of Lucian Freud, whom she studied under during her time in art school. She has also been known to draw inspiration from the works of Francis Bacon and Willem de Kooning.
What Art Techniques Does Jenny Saville Use?
Saville’s art techniques are as groundbreaking and unique as the artwork she produces. Her paintings often begin with a series of sketches and photographs taken of her subjects, which she uses as a reference point when creating her large-scale works.
One of the key art techniques that Saville employs is the manipulation of the flesh. Saville often uses palette knives and other tools to create a three-dimensional look to her work. She also uses a layering technique, creating a thick surface of oil and pigment that adds depth and texture to each piece.
Another one of Saville’s signature techniques is her use of color. She often applies multiple layers of paint to achieve a rich and varied color palette that is both deeply emotional and aesthetically pleasing. Saville also works with tonal values to create contrast and depth in her paintings.
Saville’s artwork is also known for bridging the gap between the classical and the contemporary. She often uses classical poses, such as the reclining nude, but twists and distorts them to create something entirely new and exciting.
What Was Jenny Saville Famous For?
Jenny Saville quickly became famous for her striking and unconventional takes on the female form. Her paintings often feature women of all shapes and sizes, portrayed in a way that challenges traditional standards of beauty. She was especially popular in the 1990s, when society was still grappling with issues surrounding body image and feminism.
Saville’s work has been showcased in galleries all over the world, including the Gagosian Gallery in New York and the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art. Her exhibitions have drawn enormous crowds, as people flock to see her powerful, thought-provoking artwork firsthand.
Why Does Jenny Saville Do Self Portraits?
One of the most fascinating aspects of Jenny Saville’s art techniques is her use of self-portraits. Although she is known for her portraits of other people, Saville has also completed several self-portraits over the years.
According to interviews with Saville, she does self-portraits as a way to explore her own identity and vulnerability. She also sees it as a way to take control of her own image, something she believes all women should have the power to do.
How Much is Jenny Saville Worth?
Jenny Saville’s artwork is highly sought-after in the art world, and she has an estimated net worth of around $6 million. Her paintings have sold for upwards of $10 million at auction, making her one of the most successful female artists of all time.
Despite her enormous success, Saville remains humble and dedicated to her craft. She continues to produce thought-provoking and emotionally charged artwork that challenges viewers to rethink their notions of beauty and femininity.
In conclusion, Jenny Saville’s art techniques and legacy represent a groundbreaking and inspiring contribution to contemporary art. Her use of color, layering, and manipulation of the human form have revolutionized how we understand the female body, and her commitment to self-expression and representation has paved the way for future generations of artists. Whether you’re a seasoned art lover or a newcomer to the field, Jenny Saville’s artwork is a must-see for anyone interested in the power of the visual arts.