Sofia Laskari

Sofia Laskari is a London-based figurative artist whose work explores the intimate narratives and strength of women. At just 22, Sofia has already established herself as a rising talent, winning the UK New Artist 2023 title at Saatchi Gallery and debuting her first solo show, Body and Flesh, at age 21.

Her art delves into the human form, drawing inspiration from the vulnerability and resilience of women, with a focus on themes of identity, body image, and femininity. Influenced by masters like Lucian Freud and Jenny Saville, Sofia’s paintings are bold, full of emotions, and brutaly honest.

Passionate about connecting with audiences, Sofia has exhibited at prominent fairs such as London Biennale, Woman in Art Fair and recently appeared on Portrait Artist of the Year 2024. Through her work, she aims to spark meaningful conversations about the representation of women in art and society.

When she’s not painting, (which barely happens) Sofia is actively building her art community, teaching, and engaging with collectors and art lovers worldwide.

Exhibitions/ publications

Photograph by: Tom Morley

Artist Statement

My work is a celebration of women—their bodies, stories, and emotions. Through figurative painting, I explore the depths of vulnerability, strength, and identity, aiming to challenge societal norms and stereotypes surrounding the female form. Inspired by artists like Lucian Freud, Jenny Saville, and Joan Semmel, I strive to capture the raw, unfiltered essence of humanity in my portraits and figurative works.

At 21, I debuted my solo series Body and Flesh, where I delved into the tension between physicality and emotion, highlighting the interplay between the external and internal selves. This series, exhibited at Saatchi Gallery, earned me the title of UK New Artist 2023, marking a pivotal moment in my journey.

My art is deeply personal yet universal, as I draw from my own experiences and observations to create works that connect on a broader scale. Painting women—often in a nude, unidealized form—is my way of reclaiming the narrative around femininity and body image, portraying women not as objects but as complex beings.

In addition, I am drawn to topics that are rarely discussed in art, such as self-harm, emotional isolation, and mental health. These subjects carry a weight that many struggle to express, and I aim to create a space where people can feel seen, understood, and less alone. My goal is to connect with those who may not find the words to articulate their pain, offering them a visual language through which they can find resonance and comfort.

Each piece I create is a conversation, an invitation to engage with the beauty, struggle, and truth of what it means to be a woman today. As I continue to evolve as an artist, my goal is not just to create but to connect—to spark dialogue, evoke emotion, and contribute to a more inclusive and authentic representation of women in art.

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