Charli-Ann Padilla graduated with a degree in Fine Art from UWE Bristol in 2026 and was awarded a Graduate Fellowship at Spike Island from 2026–27.
Padilla’s practice is possible because of paint. In her experience, paint has been a medium that has taught her, while also allowing her to grow and make mistakes. The medium is forgiving but strict; it leaves room for growth but is equally as stubborn. It
mentors you and learns alongside you. It’s like becoming familiar with one another’s habits – you eventually hit this point of synchronisation found in dance and movement – from one form to the other, moving energy throughout your body into the paint as if you were one.
Padilla’s practice is about understanding and learning, expanding the mind and exploring the depths of her imagination. Now entering the edge of the never-ending void of her imagination, she is experimenting with other materials and methods, searching for a new perspective.
“I am constantly inspired by how paint moves, how it reacts to the slightest things, like a runny nose or a sore eye. I love how it shapeshifts like food, and how half the time you think that you’re in control but by the end of the painting the medium has made its own decisions.” – Charli-Ann Padilla
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