Audrey Hepburn "In Her Own Words"
Audrey Hepburn "In Her Own Words"
SOLD
This portrait of Audrey Hepburn, meticulously constructed from her own words and iconic quotes, captures the elegance, depth, and enduring grace for which she is remembered. Phil has masterfully used handwritten text to form the features of Hepburn’s face—her expressive eyes, defined brows, and poised lips—all with remarkable detail. Each word and phrase flows naturally into her likeness, creating a textured interplay between image and language, as if Hepburn’s very essence is composed of her own philosophies and values.
The choice to use Hepburn’s quotes as the structure of her portrait adds profound layers to the piece. Her thoughts on kindness, perseverance, beauty, and humanity—her timeless wisdom—are etched directly into her face, suggesting that her words are as much a part of her legacy as her iconic image. The viewer can read phrases like "Nothing is impossible" and "People, even more than things, have to be restored, renewed, revived," words that reflect her gentle strength and compassion, qualities that made her beloved by so many. These quotes seem to give voice to her spirit, merging her inner values with her outward beauty.
Rendered in black and white, the portrait maintains a classic, timeless aesthetic that resonates with Hepburn’s own sophisticated style. Phil has used darker, denser clusters of text to create shadows and depth, bringing her features into high contrast against the lighter areas. This technique gives the portrait a sense of dimensionality and realism, even as it remains entirely textual—a seamless fusion of visual and verbal artistry.
For a collector, this artwork is a celebration of Audrey Hepburn not only as an actress but as an icon of compassion, strength, and elegance. It’s a portrait that speaks directly to the viewer, inviting reflection and connection with her ideals. Displaying this piece is a statement of admiration for both her beauty and her enduring values, a reminder of the impact one individual can have through words and actions alike. Owning this portrait is like holding a piece of Hepburn’s legacy—a timeless reminder of the kindness and grace she championed throughout her life.
Created in 2017
22x30 inches
Pen on Watercolor Paper
(this portrait is framed)