Manon West

This oil painting is a self-portrait of the artist. She leans on the surface of her desk, surrounded by art materials, showing an expression of contemplation and determination. The painting is part of a series of reflective self-portraits that began in 2020. Inspired by Rembrandt’s numerous self-portraits, this painting of the artist features dramatic baroque lighting and expression, with a contemporary and modern feel. The unusual perspective used is often featured in her work. This image marks the beginning of a new year, with renewed determination to progress and succeed in future endeavors.

Manon West was born to French and Irish parents in 1999. She grew up in Connemara surrounded by the local artist community. She works in multiple mediums, focusing on figurative art, with an interest in baroque portraiture and surrealism. Her personal environment is a central theme in her work. She graduated from ATU (Atlantic Technological University, Ireland) with a BA (Hons) in Contemporary Art in 2022.