Suzie Sequin
Ink and watercolour on paper.
2010
Caricature for burlesque performer Suzie Sequin
Scarlet Fever
Acrylic on canvas.
2008
30" x 40"
The much awaited portrait of Channel Four's 'Faking It' star, Miss Scarlet Fever.
To find out more about this painting project and it's big unveiling see the events section
Why Scarlet Fever?
When the Faking It Burlesque Christmas Special was aired on Channel Four in 2006 it had a far bigger impact than could ever have been imagined.
The story of how the self conscious dowdy cleaner Sharon Pallister was transformed into the confident sassy burlesque performer Scarlet Fever touched the imagination and hearts of the nation.
Over four weeks Sharon was introduced to burlesque for the first time, trained by top burlesque stars Immodesty Blaize and Dita Von Teese, and challenged to fake it as a fully fledged burlesque performer alongside other performers in front of a panel of judges.
She achieved the faking it and more.
The programme's airing came at a time when a wave of Neo Burlesque had begun to sweep the country and people were beginning to witness a rebirth of classic old school entertainment. This fact, paired with Sharon's literal rebirth into a new life was the catalyst that triggered a multitude of learn burlesque classes in towns and cities everywhere.
It was now proved that the art of burlesque could be taken up by anyone; color size and shape was irrelevant and low self esteem could be tackled by facing ones demons and showing off the best of what you had.
The moment Sharon decided to show off the scars on her stomach she had until then kept hidden and couldn't even bring herself to touch, she became Scarlet.
In this way, Scarlet Fever became a symbol of female empowerment through showmanship, and the perfect subject to show how burlesque has grown into a modern form of feminism.
I decided to paint Scarlet Fever in all her glory with scars on show and as the Queen of Hearts to symbolise the impact her story has had to modern day burlesque.
Rouge Rum
Pen and ink and Photoshop.
2008
Caricature commissioned by burlesque performer Candee Handful
Madame Ant
Pen and ink and Photoshop.
2008
Caricature commissioned by burlesque performer Candee Handful
Liv
Acrylic on canvas and gold leaf effect.
2008
30cm x 30 cm
SOLD
Private commission
Manchester
Scarlet Fever
Pen and ink and Photoshop.
2008
Caricature commissioned by burlesque star Scarlet Fever
The Chantilly Belles
Pen and ink and Photoshop.
2007
Caricature for burlesque double act The Chantilly Belles
Cherry Marlene
Acrylic on canvas.
2007
21" x 35"
Painting for the Ooh La La Exhibition
Lady Luck
Acrylic on canvas.
2007
30cm x 30cm
Private commission
Australia
American Curl
Acrylic on canvas.
2006
16" x 20"
SOLD
Private commission
London
Miss Chambers
Acrylic on canvas.
2005
35" x 50"
SOLD
Private commission
Manchester
Prints available
The Life Of Riley
Acrylic on canvas.
2005
40cm x 40cm
SOLD
Private collection
Southampton
Abbe
Acrylic on canvas.
2005
30" x 45"
SOLD
Private commission
Cheshire
I Do It In High Heels And Backwards
Acrylic on canvas.
2004
35" x 35"
SOLD
Private commission
Manchester
Tiger Lounge flyer
Crayon and poster paint on card.
2002
