This is an ongoing series of works that started in 2024.

Concept

This series is a collection of small portraits that investigates unconventional aspects of human expression. Each work focuses on facial details that might initially seem annoying, yet they command attention by drawing our gaze. Rather than being simply unattractive, these elements engage the viewer and challenge our habitual perceptions of the human face.

Inspiration

The artist draws inspiration from a rich history of portraiture, taking cues from Quentin Matsys, Leonardo da Vinci’s studies of Grotesque Heads, Chaim Soutine, and Amedeo Modigliani. These artists pushed the limits of traditional portraiture by showing faces in ways that defied conventional expectations.

In addition to these classical influences, the artist is deeply intrigued by everyday observations. For example, the routine use of makeup to mask imperfections reflects a modern desire to control first impressions and manage one’s image. This common practice — along with the use of digital filters — sparks a conversation about what is hidden versus what is revealed.

Process

This series consists of small acrylic paintings, each beginning with a carefully captured photograph that serves as an authentic record of a face. From this image, the work undergoes several phases of deconstruction — each stage adding a new layer of distortion as specific facial features are isolated and transformed. The process culminates in a deliberately incomplete portrait, where only the key, often irritating, elements remain. This quick experimentation aims to reveal the raw essence of our face.

Current Works

New Nav

This portrait features Nav wearing headphones. His eyes have been intentionally omitted, and the texture of his skin is deliberately roughened.

Dedicated Artwork Page:
https://miltosdespoudis.gr/archive/paintings/a2506180/

New Achill

This portrait depicts Achill captured in a smile with his teeth exposed. His eyes engage directly with the viewer, and his skin is rendered to evoke a warm, bronze-like texture.

Dedicated Artwork Page:
https://miltosdespoudis.gr/archive/paintings/a2407200/

New Kristin

This portrait features Kristin, portrayed with one eye engaging the viewer and the other noticeably absent. Despite her seated position, her pose exudes a dynamic energy. Her hair blends strangely into the background, emphasizing the confident expression she carries.

Dedicated Artwork Page:
https://miltosdespoudis.gr/archive/paintings/a2506170/

Future Works

…