About
Elina Siddal is a French figurative painter interested in the preservation of traditional craftsmanship. Inspired by the timelessness of legendary tales and by what they reveal of human nature, her work explores the liminal spaces in between past and present, inner and outer worlds- aiming to show the relevance of literature to question contemporary issues.
Art history and archaeology graduate (Panthéon-Sorbonne, Paris), Elina further pursued her education on art materials and their conservation. Following additional courses at the Ecole du Louvre and learning oil paint making with Teresa Oaxaca, before travelling to the cities and museums of the Old Masters to complete her training in the spirit of the Grand Tour tradition.
Known for her ethereal and symbolic portraiture, Elina's artworks have been described as 'visual poetry' and critically acclaimed. Having won first place in the 2021 Pre-Raphaelite Society painting competition and third place in 2023, publishing twice in the Review. She was notably selected for the 163rd edition of the Society of Women Artists annual exhibit held at the Mall Galleries, London. Her upcoming show, “Inner Landscapes”, will take place at the Independent & Image Art Space in Chongqing, China.
In addition to her studio practice, selling and exhibiting her art, Elina takes on a variety of custom commissions. Please feel free to use the contact form to get in touch.
Artist Statement
" The expressivity of the stare has always fascinated me; painting portraits gives me this connection to others. To me, figuration goes beyond physicality, as I always seek to capture something intangible. In that sense, the inclusion of metal leaves and glazes in my work aim to reflect a presence just as much as they reflect light. Picturing consciousness as an iridescence of mind upon matter. That’s probably why the evocative power of poetry, colours, and symbols are so prevalent in my paintings. They are in tune with our quest for sense but also offer a walk upon meaning’s edge where the viewer can freely wander in contemplation. .
Touched by the beauty of everyday things and intent, I deeply value the knowledge of materials, the time, and love required to make a single piece of art. Inspired by the ethics of the Arts&Crafts and the ideals of Symbolist movements of the late 19th century, I have throughout the years devoted my own artistic practice to the preservation of traditional craftsmanships. Delving into paint making has allowed me to have more control over the composition of my work, know the source of my pigments, get rid of the industrial additives, and engage with the historical side of the craft. In the end, each project reflects a personal journey and has become a journey in itself by the time of its completion."
Elina Siddal