Florence Yuqing
Biography
Florence Yuqing is a London-based contemporary painter specialising in figurative watercolour and portraiture. Her love of watercolour began at a young age, when she carried a small set of paints with her. She has exhibited with the Royal Society of Portrait Painters, Royal Institute of Painters in Water Colours, Royal Society of Marine Artists and Society of Women Artists. Her awards include the RP Prize for Best Small Portrait in 2024, Raw Umber Studios Prize in 2025 and RP Purchase Prize in 2025. She was also shortlisted for the Cass Art Prize in 2025.
Artist Statement
My creative practice focuses on portraiture and figurative painting, exploring the beauty of the flesh and the emotional and delicate nature of human beings. I am interested in capturing the atmosphere of my subject, together with the emotion and expression of the character, which is often presented in a peaceful tone.
In recent years, I have increasingly created imaginary characters to paint from, bringing an element of otherworldliness to my portraits. These imagined figures allow me to explore character and emotion beyond direct observation, while retaining my interest in the human form and the subtle qualities of expression. Through my paintings, I seek to create a quiet atmosphere in which the character and their emotional presence can emerge.