Venus of Southend

Oil on Canvas

79cm x 104cm (framed)

Venus, the Roman goddess of love and beauty, has been a central figure in art for centuries, embodying ideals of femininity and sensuality. Depicting Venus as a drunk young woman introduces a provocative twist to the classical image of the goddess of love and beauty. This portrayal subverts traditional ideals, presenting Venus in a vulnerable, flawed state that humanises her divine persona. This modern interpretation opens dialogue about the pressures of idealised beauty and the complexities of human nature, blending mythological symbolism with contemporary themes of youth, indulgence, and the often messy reality of life.