Tara Lewis’ paintings challenge conventional portraiture with a focus on female agency and the contemporary complexities of femininity. Exploring cultural anthropology, individuality, and personhood, the work weaves a fresh narrative that delves into self-awareness, irreverence, and satirical punch, informed by critical reflections on expectations and stereotypes associated with gender roles. These figurative paintings redefine cultural icons, drawing inspiration from a sustained exploration of childhood memories associated with familiar characters in cartoons, TV shows, and coming-of-age movies. Tara’s work has been featured in various solo and group exhibitions in New York City as well as at the Aspen Art Museum, CO and the Watermill Center, NY. Her paintings are held in major collections including The Phelan Art Collection, Brooke Shields, Seavest Collection, Ashley Longshore, and Bunker Artspace. Tara has been featured in publications such as Artnet News, Cultured, Whitewall, Women’s Wear Daily and Fine Art Connoisseur. Tara received a B.A. in Studio Art at the University of New Hampshire and an M.A.T. in Visual Studies at SMFA at Tufts University. Her studio practice is based in New York City and New England.