This portrait series is inspired by low budget “slasher” horror films of the late 1970s and 80s, Mughal portraiture, and Indian textiles. The compositions of these paintings reference a common scene found in “slasher” films - a quick framed shot of the killer’s raised arm, usually holding a knife or weapon or sharp claws, just before it slashes its next victim. In the portraits, jungle cats are the killer while referencing colonialism and imperialism as many European nations and monarchies use these animals in their coat of arms.

These small works on canvas use tight and awkward cropping of the subjects’ upper torsos focusing on the neck to heighten lust and kink, recall dark power dynamics and vulnerability, while also exploring imperialism, pattern and our relationship to nature. 

The works also make a case for conservation. As urban and farmland expansion continues, natural animal habitats are dwindling all over the world making human and animal conflict increasingly common.