Joanna Pilarczyk

Joanna Pilarczyk is a London-based contemporary figurative painter. Born in Poland, Pilarczyk studied at the Art University in Zielona Gora, where she earned a Master's degree in Visual Arts and Art Education.Having moved to London over a decade ago, Joanna immediately fell in love with the city, captivated by its diverse cultures and vibrant energy. Within the artist community of North London, she began painting oil portraits of new acquaintances and friends, reflecting the unique essence of the city.In her recent series of paintings, Pilarczyk focuses on portraying mixed-race and gay couples. To create these works, the artist engages in discussions with her friends and models, delving into their experiences, love stories, and struggles related to racism, sexuality, and cultural diversity. Captivated by the vibrancy of paint, Pilarczyk uses a bold mixture of clashing colours, blending neon acrylics and oils to create sensual and striking portraits. Her romantic compositions explore themes of relationships, self-awareness and acceptance. They convey melancholy and stillness, capturing a moment where the subjects are simply resting and free of responsibility. This, however, sits in contrast to the bright, energetic palette. She wants the viewer to be drawn in by the dynamic compositions and the lure of the colours, and then notice the stillness within that. Pilarczyk's artistic talent has earned her recognition and accolades. She was the recipient of the Boynes Monthly Artist Award and a finalist for the International FiKVA Award for Figurative Painters and also for the Women United Art Prize in both 2022 and 2021. Her work has been exhibited nationally and internationally, including at prestigious venues like Women in Art Fair at Mall Galleries, the Other Art Fair in Truman Brewery and Start Art Fair in Saatchi Gallery, London. Additionally, she showcased her newest paintings at a solo show with Oink Gallery, featuring pieces from her 'My Paradise' series. Furthermore, Joanna actively participated in the Spring and Summer editions of the Other Art Fair in 2022.Her artworks have even crossed international borders, with her paintings from the 'Intimate Times' series being exhibited at 33 Contemporary Gallery in Chicago and Mixx Atelier Gallery in Telluride, USA. Moreover, she contributed her art to the 'Memories in Hindsight' group show at J/M Gallery in Notting Hill, London. Pilarczyk’s paintings have been featured in publications including Create! Magazine, Art Seen, Women United Art Magazine, Suboart, New Visionary and Boynes Artist Award.