Exploring the Depths of Jenny Saville’s Artistry: ‘I Paint Until I Feel Something’
In the spotlight, British artist Jenny Saville unveils her extraordinary works at her first U.S. museum exhibition, “The Anatomy of Painting,” hosted by the Museum of Modern Art in Fort Worth. This exhibition showcases Saville’s exploration of the human form, celebrated for her remarkable depictions of bodies on a grand scale.
Saville, renowned since the 1990s, captivates audiences with her bold portrayal of flesh, evoking the grandeur of the masters like Titian and Rembrandt. Her canvases, filled with rippling, voluminous figures, often focus on women, capturing the nuances of human anatomy through expressive oil painting techniques.
Her rise to fame began in 1992 with “Propped,” a self-portrait that caught the attention of art dealer Charles Saatchi. This piece, along with others, soon became part of Saatchi’s collection, cementing Saville’s status in the art world. In 2018, “Propped” set a new auction record at Sotheby’s London, selling for $12.4 million. Although Marlene Dumas later surpassed this record in 2025, Saville remains a vital figure in contemporary art.
Saville’s major London exhibition, “Jenny Saville: The Anatomy of Painting,” debuted at the National Portrait Gallery in June 2025. Curated by Sarah Howgate, it featured 45 of her works, offering a comprehensive look at her career. This exhibition later traveled to Texas, curated by Andrea Karnes, bringing together some of Saville’s largest masterpieces, a true Texas-sized display.
In a rare interview, Saville reflected on seeing her works from the 1990s to the present in one venue, describing the experience as a journey through her artistic evolution. She noted how the architecture of the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth complemented her work, allowing even her largest pieces to be exhibited.
Photography plays a crucial role in Saville’s process, serving as a visual sketchbook and inspiration. She often incorporates images of her models and everyday subjects, which she captures through various photography techniques, into her paintings.
The evolution of color in Saville’s work is also a point of interest. While some of her pieces feature vibrant hues, she emphasizes that the majority of her works maintain a naturalistic color palette, as seen in “Chasah” (2020). Her exploration of color reflects the ongoing experimentation that defines her artistic journey.
Oil paint remains Saville’s primary medium, yet she embraces pastels for their versatility and range of colors. This experimentation with different materials allows her to push boundaries and explore new dimensions in her work. In this exhibition, she highlights her larger pieces, offering audiences a rare glimpse of works like “Fulcrum,” which typically remain hidden due to their size.
Saville’s fascination with the human body transcends mere representation; she delves into the sculptural and abstract elements of form. Her works, such as “Host” and “Suspension,” reflect her interest in the shared anatomical traits between humans and animals. She vividly recalls the joy and experimentation involved in creating these large-scale paintings, which often feature abstract passages and bold color choices.
Through her career, Saville has painted numerous portraits and body compositions, often exploring themes of humanity and intimacy. Her “Stare Head” series demonstrates her fluid technique and engagement with both familiar and anonymous subjects. These works balance abstraction and realism, revealing the depth of her artistic inquiry.
Saville acknowledges that her work involves both solitary figures and groups. While single figures possess a quiet presence, groups introduce dynamic narratives that highlight human connections. Her compositions draw inspiration from classical sculptures, adding a timeless quality to her contemporary pieces.
In her exploration of Greek myths and Pietàs, Saville continues to evolve, creating new dialogues with historical art forms. Her current interests lie in portraying the universal themes of humanity, as seen in her recent works.
Saville’s artistic journey, shaped by her intuitive approach, remains steadfast. While her techniques and tools may evolve, the essence of her work, grounded in the exploration of the human form, endures. Her dedication to painting, fueled by an unending curiosity, ensures her place as a vital force in the contemporary art landscape.
