Over lockdown I briefly identified as genderqueer which led me on a journey of exploring the concept of ‘transition’ and the effects of hormones. I also questioned why I had decided to ‘opt out’ of being a woman and began exploring why other women felt this way. It was during this time I discovered that some women were ‘de-transitioning’ and being let down by a system both in terms of mental health and medical support, as well as by the trans community that had previously welcomed them. I feel we have so much to learn about why these women felt they had to transition in the first place, the system that led to them accessing hormones and surgery (eg. the lack of thorough assessment in the reasons behind their gender dysphoria) and the marginalisation of detransitioners by the trans community itself. I am greatly moved by the wisdom these women are sharing and they are educating us with their experiences.

As a woman who always wished to be a male since her teens, on some level I relate to these young women. I have also spoken with numerous friends (age 40+) who’ve said they would’ve jumped at the chance to escape womanhood as a teen. I think society is letting young women down by eroding their rights to their own bodies (eg. abortion), porn and domestic violence, as well as the media perpetuating gender-based stereotypes. I also passionately want to raise awareness around challenging these stereotypes as so many young women don’t feel ‘feminine enough’ or ‘too masculine’ to feel comfortable embracing their idea of being a woman (as was the case with me).

I was planning to but in discussions with detransitioned males I have learned there is such a huge stigma against detransitioned men that they would be extremely unlikely to volunteer to be painted - however I may produce a small series focussing on men.

Portraiture has a long history of being used to celebrate the highest ranking individuals in society eg. kings and queens. Detransitioners are marginalised and silenced but I want to elevate them and share their rite of passage which is valuable. A portrait artist can also evoke emotion and connection through their interpretation of the photo of the sitter. I tend to develop a relationship with each participant through messaging, privately hearing their journeys and viewing several photos which I hope informs how I paint each portrait. I do not see the paintings as standalone artworks - I am producing one artwork composed of 100 portraits with text.

Each background colour is based on the participant's favourite colour - I find it interesting that this is often green! I then choose a complimentary colour as a base to create a bright, contemporary style.

I have had people reach out on social media or I have messaged them and some participants have suggested my series to their friends.

Please contact me at (email) - portraits can be anonymous and I work from good quality selfies. I still have plenty of availability

Each portrait is 12” x 12” on canvas board, I use oil paints (mostly Alkyd)

I have some UK exhibitions planned (these will be announced when confirmed) I am looking for London and US galleries.

Once complete (hopefully by the end of 2023) and exhibited the series will hopefully be turned into a book. The original portraits will be sent to each participant wherever possible.

Donations will go towards art materials, admin/marketing and eventually exhibition costs.

Yes, there are several who I am in regular contact with as I am passionate about supporting them beyond simply painting their portrait.

Often my participants have reported feeling that having their portrait painted is life affirming and validating when they have been left feeling so isolated and marginalised. I also hope that being included in a large group of artworks would help with a feeling of solidarity and connection.

Once somebody contacts me I ask for a little information about their story (often I am honoured to receive and lengthy outline of their journey that is kept confidential) then we discuss which photos might work. Once I receive the images we decide on a background colour and I transfer an outline to the canvas. Often I work on 2-3 portraits at a time to keep a freshness. I aim to paint 1-2 portraits a week although as a busy mum of two this isn't always possible. Once the portrait is almost complete I check if the participant would like any small changes and I only post online once they are happy.

These artworks are not for sale.

I do indeed! Please contact me at art@sarahvaci.com

5 limited edition prints are available in 2 sizes of selected portraits,

Prices are in GBP however your payment provider should convert this to your local currency.

FREE UK SHIPPING available, taxes may be payable in your own country.

RETURNS : In the unlikely event that you are not 100% satisfied with your artwork, please contact us within 14 days delivery. (You will be required to pay shipping costs.) Once the artwork has been received a full refund is available.

PROCEEDS : Any profit from prints are currently being used to support the continuation of the project however plans are in place to support these women beyond the art series.