The most often asked question is ‘why is that on her head?’
My answer is ‘yes, why?’
It’s not meant to be there, but it IS there and she is just going to carry on as normal as if it isn’t because that’s what’s expected right?
These paintings explore themes of resilience and societal expectations. 2025 feels pretty ludicrous and by placing absurd objects on women’s heads this work is emblematic of the invisible burden society places on women and anyone who dares to challenge the ‘norm’ to carry with silent, uncomplaining grace.
Imagine society saying ‘ok why have you got a skate on your head? Isn’t it uncomfortable? You should take it off’ which she does;
And then ‘ahh but you can’t put it there there’s not room and I can’t take it, I don’t have space, could you just keep it a little longer until we can find a spot for it?’
She keeps the skate on her head.
This cycle speaks to the ways society often empathizes without offering relief, acknowledging discomfort yet failing to shoulder it.
And on she goes, with a skate on her head, which now belongs there alongside the ache that it causes her.
She’s pretty though right?
Sarah Payling is a visual artist whose work primarily revolves around painting and printmaking, with a particular emphasis on feminist portraiture.
Through her artistic practice, Payling explores themes of identity, empowerment, and the representation of women in art and life. Her portraits often serve as a celebration of individuality and strength, reflecting the complexities of the female experience.
