Olivia Outlaw

Artist Statement

My work explores surrealism through the intimacy of the female form, illustrated completely in ballpoint pen. I am drawn to the tension between the obvious and unclear, particularly with how the body can symbolize transformation, nature, truth, and rebellion. One of my most favored art themes, apparent in my mushroom series, is how the fungal form can grow from and complement the female body. In 2024, I began my mushroom series as a way of connecting femininity to nature and capturing the beauty of unsettling imagery. This is how surrealism came to be my favorite art style. Through portraiture and symbolism, I have made art in order to make people think of the human identity, its purpose, connection, and beauty. In the long-run, I trust that my art will help to uplift underrepresented voices in the arts such as women, LGBTQ+ individuals, and creatives of color. I also strive to make a name for ballpoint pen art as a recognized medium and talent.