One of my favorites is Artemisia Gentileschi. Decidedly strong-willed, she made her way as a Baroque painter. One of her most famous paintings is the depiction of a rapist's beheading. I always hope to carry that same energy forward. Her poignant perspective through her subject matter and brush strokes leaves a fire in my heart.

Judith and Holofernes, ca. 1620
Oil on canvas
78 3/10 × 64 in
199 × 162.5 cm