Rhea Ornias’ illustrations and paintings center around powerful women that stare straight ahead. These pieces are sometimes accompanied by poems (shared through her facebook), adding a poetic quality to her work.
“As an only child, illustrating and writing were my two great companions,” the Filipino-born, Australia-based artist shared in an interview with I Love Illustration. “I only needed a sunroom (with some drizzle outside) on a soft sofa with a mug of hot choco in my hands.”
On top of her love of writing and illustrating, Ornias is very much inspired by fashion, with her work relying on her background in fashion design. “Art is the highest form of hope,” says Ornias, quoting the German painter Gerhard Richter, adding that art comforts, elates, and defies.
“My poetry is about finding your authentic self, amidst chaos in this world,” she adds. “I hope it will inspire self- love and courage not to sell out the dream. Life is more than being liked.” Follow her inspiring word and illustrations on Instagram.