The Resurgence of Realism: Melissa Clements cites a Baroque classic.

Initially drawn to her reference to the story of Judith and Holofernes from the Book of Deuteronomy, I came across the artist's current body of work on social media, which encouraged me to spend some time looking into the evolution of Melissa Clements' practice. I have very much enjoyed learning about the young artist's commitment to her career, integrity of practice, and ability to let go of expectations and boldly allow her craft to cultivate intuitively.

Devoting all her time to painting, Clements has fully immersed herself in her craft. Completing a summer residency in New York at the New York Academy of Art, her time in the cold, isolated terrain of Svalbard, and her distinguished portraitures resulting as finalists for The Archibald Prize and semi-finalist for the Lester Prize, have paved the way for her commission for a portrait of The Honorable Chief Justice Peter Quinlan. This 26-year-old has had a remarkable start to her career.

Clements' upcoming exhibition, "The Flight of the Battery Hens," is yet another outstanding step in her journey to establish herself as an exceptional artist locally and internationally. Clements' art emerges from classical techniques and samples from Baroque artists Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio and Artemisia Gentileschi. This method of study is something I haven't come across locally. I appreciate the deep study Clements has made of the artists from this period, as well as her exploration of the Renaissance Verdaccio technique, evoking strong emotion and enhancing the realism emanating from her works. They are truly wonderful to stand in front of, inspiring feelings of awe, trepidation, alarm, and concurrently an undertone of humor bouncing about.

The works speak to current issues of power, tyranny, and resilience, and address the ongoing human condition. I would encourage all to visit this body of work at PS Art Space.