Kathryn Armitage (b. 1994, North Yorkshire, UK) is a figurative painter based in London. Her work explores gender norms and dynamics of power, questioning traditional notions of femininity and how the female body is portrayed through painting.

Compositionally referencing Old Masters, predominantly from the Dutch Golden Age, Armitage abstracts, manipulates and takes control of the work, often inserting her own figure into the place of powerful, domineering men. Although the work is self-referencing, her personal identity remains obscured, giving her looming, brazen figures a more ambiguous and universal nature. Heavily influenced by contemporary fashion, clothing is also utilised throughout Armitage’s work as a powerful signifier and tool for shapeshifting; allowing the artist to fully step into the different personas she depicts. 

Whilst her practice has a deeply historical and traditional starting point, Armitage takes a playful approach to materiality, utilising a vivid palette & energetic mark-making. Initial layers of fluorescent spray paint, pigmented washes and untouched canvas are balanced with a heavier, gestural application of paint, pastel and oil stick. This culminates in works with a heightened sense of emotional intensity, vibrating with energy and blurring the boundaries of reality.

Kathryn completed her BA in Painting at Camberwell College of Art (2016) and her MA in Painting at the Royal College of Art (2024). For a full portfolio or available works list please contact: hello@ka-creative.co.uk