Vivien Barrett-Lennard

Shenton College

Year 11

Oil, acrylic and pastel on canvas

100cm × 100cm

Sixteen Pieces of Me is an oil and acrylic painting exploring the relationship between perfectionism and identity. Constructed from sixteen canvases arranged in a four-by-four grid, the self-portrait transitions diagonally from expressive impasto brushwork and organic lines to detailed realism. This shift symbolises the tension between embracing imperfection and striving for perfection. Inspired by my own experiences with insecurity, I deliberately used uncontrolled techniques and visible imperfections to challenge my perfectionist tendencies. By accepting outcomes that did not meet my usual standards, I learned to value authenticity over flawlessness.