Inspired by the beauty captured in portraits created during the High Renaissance period and specifically the beauty that artist’s displayed in portraiture artworks, my self-portrait represents the beauty that I admire in my family. Throughout my studio process this year, I have acquired a position of admiration and appreciation for the beauty seen in my family, both externally and internally. Whilst remaining close and supportive this entire year, my family and I have bonded together, which led me to initially painting them in my final series of works. My self-portrait, alongside my other portraits, specifically depicts my stance during my studio process, which was of constant respect and appreciation of their beauty. Demonstrated through my representation of my natural physical features using oil paint on board, my look upwards eludes to my state of gratefulness and love towards my family, for all of the love and support they have given me throughout my life, and especially this year. The title of my work, áilleacht, is the Gaelic word for beauty, which ultimately connects my family’s heritage and background to my perception of our beauty, amplifying our relationship with our Irish heritage, which similarly impacts upon our beauty and identities.