Obsessed with colour, Sarah Graham’s oil paintings are a vivid exploration of still life. ‘The process is more visceral than intellectual. I aim to communicate an elusive feeling of sheer joy. I’m not too concerned with creating a great deal of meaning beyond the aesthetic. Imagery is often borrowed from childhood; sweets, toys, stuff that engages the viewer to evoke a sense of wonderment, and ultimately feelings of nostalgia.’
Working on instinct, Sarah does not follow any traditional rules, which has proved to be a successful approach during her 21-year career. Her photorealist style, using the subjects of sweets and toys, has led her to some exciting adventures. In 2012, she was commissioned by the British indie rock band Kaiser Chiefs to paint the album cover of their singles collection Souvenir. The painting was used as their backdrop on tour and major festivals. The original painting, entitled , was auctioned and raised over £10,000 for Garden House Hospice in Letchworth.
