Heaven Frans

Lives and works in Woodbridge, VA, USA

Artist statement

The face is the central aspect of my work. It’s the first thing we notice when encountering another person, and it’s what intrigues me the most. The eyes—how far apart are they? The bridge of the nose. The smile, the teeth, the brows, or the absence of them. Each feature tells something about the individual, yet still hints at what lies beneath. Throughout painting, I look for faces that fit the themes I’m exploring, as I aim to capture identity and emotion. My pieces thus focus on the stories of people of color, especially those who navigate through tribulations, medical conditions, or disabilities. I enjoy celebrating their experiences while inviting curiosity and empathy. Other times, I explore the beauty of the human form, embedding the nuances of flesh and tone into my art. My process begins with gathering ideas from external inspiration, which I draw from my own life, the lives of others, and pop culture—including fashion, film, music, and poetry. It is followed by sketching, and carefully building each composition around the face, which serves as the anchor of the piece. Through thoughtful and intentional painting, I hope to create work that resonates with viewers, encouraging connection and appreciation for the beauty and complexity of the lives I depict. Heaven Frans

Artwork