Caro Halford

Angelica III is part of a series of collage paintings based on the C18th artist Angelica Kauffman. This work includes oil paint, 24 carat gold leaf and nail varnish. It is displayed on two 1 kg terracotta clay blocks. Caro is drawn to Kauffman as she is a symbol of a female figure from the past who was overshadowed by her male counterparts. Kauffman, along with Mary Moser, was one of the two female founding members of the Royal Academy in 1768. However, as female members, the women were denied entry to life drawing sessions, dinners and committee meetings. Through her work, Caro aims to put the spotlight back on these talented artists.

This work is also influenced by the portraits of Eva Hesse, another female artist who has had a profound effect on the art. Caro’s stylistic nod to her is an act of homage to these two influential female artists.