"A girl should be two things: who and what she wants." - Coco Chanel.

When I asked people around me who were the Strong Women they were thinking of to be part of my series, Coco Chanel was one of the name that was spontaneously mentioned every time. And for good reasons!

Coco Chanel forever changed fashion and women's lives when after WW1, she set up a new feminine standard of style, freeing them from corsetry with elegant, confortable, casual chic, timeless pieces and designs. Until nowadays, her critical influence on fashion is unquestionable: which woman doesn't have a little black dress in her dressing?
She became herself a much admired style icon known for her simple yet sophisticated outfits paired with accessories, such as multiple strands of pearls.

Behind this outstanding success that still lives strong today is the story of a fascinating woman who grew up in an orphanage and made her way towards her dreams with resilience and determination. Her pioneering spirit, unique sense of fashion and strong personality make of her one of the most insightful woman in history.

Gabrielle is part of the “Strong Women” series, a collection of paintings showing women from various periods and backgrounds, who all have in common their contribution in changing the world thanks to their achievements and unique personalities.

Original: Paper collages and acrylic paint on stretched canvas