Ali Sykes is a multidisciplinary artist with a focus in painting redefining the historical genre of portraiture through a dynamic, storytelling lens. She grew up in the Seattle area, spending her formative years in trees and telling elaborate stories. She began her career studying animation out of a desire to express complex narratives, but found the freedom to explore her own ideas in transitioning to a studio art practice in 2019. Ali received a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Washington in 2022 with Honors in Art. She had her first solo show in the fall of 2024 at 84 Yesler as part of the Pioneer Square Art Walk. Her work can be viewed at the University of Washington as part of their permanent collection.
Statement
I focus on themes of identity and existence in the world through exploring an alternative approach to portraiture. As a neurodivergent individual, my thoughts exist as a non-linear, ever-changing stream of consciousness. This plays a key role in my creative process. My body of work reflects my mental process of self-discovery over time. I am thinking about how my definition of portraiture as a genre extends beyond simply paintings of faces. I have come to think of portraiture less as a historical genre, and more as a creative vehicle of expression. Unconcerned with name or status, but rather time and experience in a single moment, I aim to expose the complex infinity within the mundane. By this definition, portraiture is a thumbprint, a voicemail, even the sound of a heartbeat. Through constant and continuous questioning of existence, my work examines what it means to be alive in a society of social fragmentation and digital gratification.
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