We are delighted to announce Riyana P as our Artist of the Month, recognised for her outstanding creativity and technical skill in this striking piece of coursework. Her work has captured the attention of staff and students alike, not only for its visual impact but also for the thoughtful ideas woven into every layer of the composition.
Riyana’s artwork is a mixed‑media exploration that brings together collage, oil paint, and stencil techniques to create a richly textured and expressive final piece. At the centre of the work sits a young girl in a moment of quiet reflection, gently twisting her hair as she drifts into thought. This intimate gesture becomes the emotional anchor of the composition, drawing the viewer into the subject’s inner world.
Speaking about her inspiration, Riyana explains:
“This mixed-media piece combines collage with oil paint and stencil to create a layered, expressive composition. At its centre is a young girl seated in quiet reflection, absent-mindedly twisting her hair as she becomes lost in thought. With the layered textures and overlapping materials I wanted to create a sense of movement inspired by Mickalene Thomas’ style, celebrating the individuality and differences of young girls today as bold, complex, and confident in their own identity.”
Her reference to Mickalene Thomas, a contemporary artist known for her vibrant, layered portraits of Black women, highlights Riyana’s sophisticated engagement with influential artistic voices. By drawing on Thomas’ dynamic visual language, Riyana has created a piece that feels both personal and culturally resonant. The interplay of textures, patterns, and materials gives the work a sense of movement and depth, echoing the complexity of identity and self‑expression.
Riyana’s artwork is a testament to the dedication and ambition she brings to her A level studies. Her ability to combine technical skill with conceptual insight demonstrates the high standard of creativity flourishing within the Brampton College Art Department.
We are incredibly proud to showcase her work and look forward to seeing how her artistic journey continues to evolve.
