My name is Jess de Zilva. I studied Fine Art/Painting at the University of Arts London after having completed my foundation studies in Switzerland, St.Gallen. The focus of my artistic practise lies on the intersection of psychology and the empirical sciences. Common themes for me are "individual realities" and "behavioural disorders". My work is intimate and calls on the viewers to search inside themselves and question their believes. On this site you will find a cross section of my work I hope you will enjoy.

"Looking at Jess´ work, it is not so unusual to sometimes hesitate in giving an honest opinion- after all some would find it uncomfortable to see her drawings or paintings.

Like many artists, her inspiration comes from real life observations and dare I say experiences combined with dreams and nightmares alike.

Using a fair amount of dark and neutral colours and distorted figures in drawings or paintings, she captures the true human nature, however beautiful or ugly.

Imprisonment, escapism and liberation are easily found at first glance and can become very disruptive, but not as much as its true meaning, which deep down will show that every single one of us is somehow, somewhere represented in her various pieces of art.

Over the years Jess has developed new skills. During her studies in Switzerland and England she has ventured in different directions such as sculpture, installation, airbrush, photography, trompe l’oeil & mural painting as well as specialist paint finishes on furniture or walls; many of the latter made on demand from private clientele.

By doing these types of projects, her work has become less raw but nevertheless still carries a strong subject matter to capture an individual’s eye. Her metaphors have the answers to many of our questions. When the truth stares in your face, it is always very hard to accept. Jess is giving us the chance to accept the unacceptable through her work."