The Other Art Fair Sydney, 19-22 March 2020

Pictured: Steve Salo, ‘Saint Agatha’ after Francesco Guarino (1640), oil on canvas, 100 x 100 cm. Woman of grace, self-determination and faith. Patron saint of breast cancer patients and nurses.

I began this painting using an old technique that the masters used, called verdacccio. The mix of black, white and yellow pigments was used to define the tonal values, forming a complete monochromatic underpainting. Colour layers were then added. I contemplated the contemporary elements for over a year until one day I just knew I had to add a red cross. The cross can represent many things in Agatha’s life – her strong belief, a protective shield of inner strength and defiance, the violent act committed on her, and remembrance. Painting in the cross felt brave, it was the final stage and afterwards I sat in my couch for about an hour just looking at her knowing the painting was now complete.