Holly Drye
About Me

Portfolio

CV

In Progress



Throughout my work the concepts of memory and emotion are relevant, expanding into other themes such as self identity, time, and even mental health. My illustrations and paintings explore human emotion and recollection through subject matter and oil paint.


Utilizing the material of oils, I work in layers, starting with washes and thick brush strokes laying out the platform of my painting through values. I add more layers to the wet paint, typically much thicker to allow easier blending and an early beginning to texture. This method of texturing reflects my perspective on human memory and cognition, as layers that texture the human experience.Visually, my oil paintings are medium sized and have a cloudy appearance through consistent blending along with semi realistic contents. I like to create works that elicit emotions in the viewers, creating a foundation of connection between the work and the audience. The human form is a recurring  image in my work, ranging from limbs of the body to multiple figures in engagement. These forms represent my interest in how the body creates connections.


Overall, my work has evocative intentions with the audience, connecting not only on a personal level but as well as universal. Moving forward I strive to create larger paintings and as well explore the opportunities oil painting provides. Themes of emotion, time, the uncanny valley, and politics are future goals to expand upon.




Thanksgiving, Oil on Canvas, 30x20 Inches, 2025
The Intruders, Oil on Canvas, 25x20 Inches, 2025 
The Twins, Acrylic on Canvas, 24x18 Inches, 2023
Still Life 2, Oil on Canvas, 20x16 Inches, 2025
Still Life 1, Oil on Canvas, 24x18 Inches, 2024
Self Portrait, Oil on Canvas, 20x16 Inches, 2024
Hand, Oil on Canvas, 20x16 Inches, 2025
Birthday, Acrlyic & Oil on Canvas, 20x16 Inches, 2025