Nancy Whitehead

I am a London-based painter working exclusively in oil on MDF panels, specialising in photorealism. Since graduating I have continued to develop my practice, exploring the relationship between observation, perception, and the constructed image.

My work begins with familiar objects and visual symbols that are deeply embedded within everyday life. I am drawn to the recognisable forms of iconic brands and packaging, not simply for their appearance, but for the memories, associations, and cultural connections they hold. These objects often carry a sense of nostalgia, acting as reminders of shared experiences and moments of familiarity.

My paintings are not intended as simple reproductions of photographic source material. Instead, I use the precision of photorealism to explore the qualities that exist beyond the photograph — creating a heightened sense of depth, presence, and realism that cannot be fully captured by a camera.

Working exclusively in oil paint on MDF allows me to create highly controlled surfaces where subtle shifts in light, reflection, texture, and distortion become the focus. Through a slow and meticulous process of layering paint, I aim to transform ordinary objects into immersive visual experiences, encouraging the viewer to look beyond the surface and reconsider the relationship between reality and representation.

My practice explores the space between the familiar and the unfamiliar — where everyday objects are removed from their original context and become something more contemplative. Through careful observation, I seek to reveal the beauty within overlooked details and create paintings that exist between photographic illusion and the unique presence of the painted image