Sasha Ecclestone
When I chose to focus on the personal response to distortion I didn ’ t think it would present itself in so many different forms . I began with an accidental picture taken of a crowd in Covent Garden and decided to explore the potential of blurred imagery , in which I was most inspired by Gerhard Richter . When the exploration of the distortion of crowds became an impossible task , I adapted to consider the possibility of individual portraiture distortion and the different ways of portrayal . Initially , my work was influenced by the use of striking tones in the presentational style of Rankin . I represented distortion by way of finger painting , after enjoying the ease of blending which it allowed . I combined the simplicity of the blurred techniques with the complexity of the detailed portraiture in which Jenny Saville was instrumental in the decision to depict every flaw and deficiency through shading and refining . I explored these ideas through mediums such as plastic , glass , canvas , rubber and oil to ensure a free expedition into the extent of distortion methods . My work should embody the sense of accepted and encouraged imperfection , as an interpreted distorted portrait provides a perspective lens that shows a distinct and diverse artistry .