I grew up in Paris, but studied in England, in Cambridge. I always painted, since the youngest age, and always wanted to be a painter. But I studied social anthropology and political philosophy prior to studying art, perhaps because I hoped I could lead a “serious” or secure life. I returned to painting as soon as I finished my studies…

And I still, in a way, depend a lot on research for my painting, because a lot of it begins with a photograph from my collection of visual archives—whether I found it while researching the lives of female artists, the history of entertainment industries, the early ages of erotic photography, paparazzi clichés, etc.

All very feminine fields of research. I tend to surround myself with female figures, whether invented or painted after existing artists who’ve inspired me (Amy Winehouse, Ana Mendieta, Hannah Wilke, Sarah Lucas, Britney Spears, etc.).

I’m often attracted to the aura, the gift radiating out of them, but also a certain sensuality. There is a mysterious link between creative power and sexuality—it’s hard to define, but I find it sometimes in my paintings.

But once an image strikes, and I choose to paint it, I move away from it, and the act of painting becomes almost abstract—a question of colours and gestures mostly. And I forget all about the intention behind the painting, because a good idea never guarantees a good painting—rather the contrary in my experience… So it very quickly becomes out of my control!