Kate Hughes
a London and Sussex-based artist, working in a diverse range of media, from captivating large-scale paintings to intricate pen drawings, as well as adventures in drawn film, sound, installation and poetry. Her creations blend playfulness, curiosity, tenderness, and raw intensity.
Kate's artistic journey began with a Fine Art degree from The City and Guilds of London Art School (CGLAS), paving the way for her exceptional talent to flourish.
Kate's artistic achievements have garnered recognition, including being awarded the prestigious De Laszlo Prize for Portraiture and the Haworth Prize. Outside the studio, her collaborations with notable institutions include the Department of Neuroscience at Queen Mary University and the Department of Cardio Thoracic Surgery at Papworth Hospital and prestigious residencies such as Cil Rialaig, Ireland. These collaborations have expanded her artistic perspective and feed into her multidisciplinary approach.
Author M Mattar argues what sets Kate apart is her ability to infuse traditional media with contemporary relevance through her technical prowess and poetic compositions. Whether drawing inspiration from ancient texts like Ovid's Metamorphoses or immersing herself in the world of open-heart surgery, Kate's diverse range of influences informs her artwork, resulting in works that are both alert and sensual, offering a unique viewing experience.
Professor David Rayson, Head of Painting at the Royal College of Art, aptly describes Kate's acrylic paintings as "acutely observed" and "sensitively realized as precious fragments." Kate unveils glimpses of profound narratives and emotions, inviting viewers to engage with her work on a deeply personal level.
Kate Hughes's artistic evolution continues to surprise and delight, as her creations bridge the gap between traditional and contemporary, observation and imagination. Step into this strange new world, where technical expertise merges with poetic vision.