Bisa Bennett

Bisa Bennett’s figural paintings situate female bodies in ambiguous contexts, providing the setting for an intriguing exploration of the subtle tensions and expressions of the human form. These bodies are introspective, yet at the same time they become objects of spectacle, as the viewer has an unobstructed view into their private world. Composition adds to the building tension, as faceless figures are positioned at odd angles, with bold brushstrokes that sometimes obscure the body itself. Colors work to ground the figural forms, casting hues that are rich and earthy, at times vibrant and other times drawn from a more muted palette. But what makes Bennett’s art so compelling is her distinctive use of light and shadow, as light comes to define space and perspective, directly conveying a sense of place and time. Bennett’s paintings explore new ways for us to relate our inner world to that of modern society, pulling unspoken realities out of the shadows and into the light.

Having traveled extensively through France and Italy, Bennett now makes her home in Toronto.