Hugo Valentine, a British abstract artist, explores women, love, beauty, imperfection and intimacy in his complex works. Trained as a portrait artist, his work attempts to put the viewer into the presence of the subject. Heavily influenced by Modigliani, Picasso and Henri Rousseau, his desire is for a two-way connection and recognition to be made – even though the paintings are often heavily abstracted with pop art characteristics. Refusing to be restricted to the realm of acrylics and oils, Valentine embraces the pixel, seeking fluid and provocative techniques that maintain and reveal the hand of the artist.