Born and raised in Venice, California, Stark studied Art and Design at the University of Michigan, earning a BFA and minoring in Art History. Stark’s work focuses on celebrating the beauty and diversity of women, men, and non-binary individuals. With a contemporary artistic style that blends classical techniques and modern sensibilities, Stark works to capture the human form in all of its complexity, nuance, and dimensionality. One of the hallmarks of Stark’s artistic style is the use of bold, vibrant colors, as color has the power to convey emotions, tell stories, and create a sense of energy within a piece.
Stark has exhibited her work in various art shows and auctions, receiving recognition for their innovative and thought-provoking pieces. She continues to create art that resonates with a diverse audience and sparks meaningful conversations about identity, beauty, and self-expression.
ARTIST STATEMENT
In today’s fast-paced and demanding world, the concept of self-care has become increasingly essential for maintaining mental, emotional, and physical balance. The sheet mask, typically associated with skincare routines, takes on a broader metaphorical meaning in this context. It represents the symbolic armor of self-care, the therapeutic process of taking time for oneself to rejuvenate and find solace amidst the cacophony of daily life.
Through the man’s serene demeanor in “Hydrating,” I aim to portray the transformative power of self-care. The act of donning a sheet mask allows him to retreat from the pressures of the outside world and engage in a moment of quietude and self-reflection. In this tranquil state, he is free from judgment and expectations, embracing vulnerability as an integral part of his self-care journey.
I invite viewers to contemplate their own relationship with self-care as they engage with the artwork. In our pursuit of personal growth and resilience, we often tend to neglect the vital practice of self-compassion. The man serves as a gentle reminder that self-care is not selfish but rather a profound act of self-love. It encourages us to peel back the layers of societal expectations and embrace the essence of who we are, unapologetically and with compassion. The artwork celebrates the empowerment that arises from acknowledging our vulnerabilities and affirming the importance of safeguarding our well-being, especially during turbulent times.
Ultimately, my goal is to create work that is both visually stunning and emotionally resonant, inviting viewers to engage with my subjects on a deeper level and encouraging them to reflect on their own experiences of self-care, resilience, and personal style. As a female artist, I am passionate about exploring themes related to physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being through bold portraiture. Specifically, I am interested in the ways in which beauty rituals like sheet masks and skincare as a visual motif can be an act of self-love and empowerment.
