The small square dimensions, with only the face and neck on show, create an immediate sense of intimacy. The viewer is drawn inexorably into the eyes of the sitter. Edged with darker paint the eyes nose and mouth feel almost etched into the canvas.

The calm of the light blue background contrasts with the luxurious contours of greens and yellows. The reds and orange that lie beneath the hair and fleck the nose and brow give a tumultuous effect. Along with the darker blue of the periphery, these elements all coordinate to imply a psychological complexity.

The thick lush patchwork blocks of colour combine skillfully in expressionist fashion. Beneath the kaleidescopic paint work of the face, patches of flesh coloured streaks remain suggesting states waiting to be revealed.

The artist-sitter turns to face the viewer directly with a focused gaze touched with melancholy. She is pensive yet self confident and perhaps even a little defiant.

An ambitious yet controlled use of an extensive palette. A self-portrait of emotion presenting rawness wrapped in restraint.