Sophie-Yen Bretez

Presenting a thematic fusion of autobiography and narrative identity, Bretez’s oeuvre is marked by her signature dream-like surrealist figuration and skilful depiction of complex emotional states. Focusing on discovering ways in which to mirror the human condition in a state of recovery, Bretez often includes an illuminated horizon line stating, “I paint horizons for those who have suffered.” By portraying her characters in semi-open spaces with a sunset or sunrise in the background, Bretez blurs the boundaries of the confined ‘safe’ space one builds for themselves in moments of weakness. Ultimately, highlighting the ambivalence of existence and the ambiguity of the human condition.

Interested in challenging the traditional male gaze Bretez utilises reverse voyeurism and the evident nudity of her characters to challenge our societal relationship with the naked female body. Unfaltering and strong, the women in Bretez’s paintings look directly out at the spectator, serving to simultaneously create distance and prove they are not at the viewer’s disposal rather they assert control of their own bodies.

A natural storyteller Bretez completes each painting with a poem linked to memory. Titling her works with these spontaneous and instinctual poems, Bretez incorporates an additional layer of dialogue between the work, the viewer, and herself. Testifying to the intimate and the universal through substantive narratives, Bretez seeks to perpetuate a wider reflection of political, societal, philosophical, and existential themes.

Sophie-Yen Bretez is a self-taught emerging artist currently living and working in Paris. Originally from Vietnam, Bretez moved to France at a young age providing her with a rich fusion of cultural heritage often reflected in her multifaceted artistic practice. After completing a master’s Grand École at Neoma Business School in Rouen, France in 2018, Bretez held multiple management positions throughout Paris. In 2022, Bretez decided to pursue her passion for art and began creating full time.

CV

8 Emerging Artists Discovered at Untitled Miami Beach and NADA Miami | 9 December 2024 by Paul Laster for Galerie Magazine
After surveying hundreds of artworks in various media, Galerie has selected 8 buzzworthy artists who should be on every alert collector’s acquisition list […] Utilizing a vibrant palette of pinks and blues, she creates lively compositions that adhere to the poetics of space. LINK

Untamable Spirit | September 2024 by Allouche Gallery
From the faces of playing cards, to fortune cookies, to insightful written passages, Bretez’s paintings are a playful game to put together, with each piece providing more insight into the artist’s distinct perspective and personal vulnerabilities. LINK

Interview with Cover Artist | August 2024 by Ekaterina Popova for Create! Magazine
I see my canvases as a means of expression to create a parallel world, a metaphysical box where there are no constraints on the female body. Free from all constraints, my naked women play poker, shoot archery, eat what they want, hug, bathe, read… In short, they live freely. LINK

Interview: Sophie-Yen Bretez’s Dialectic of Inner/Outer Space| July 9, 2024 by Innovate Grant 
I’d say my style is dream-like and surreal, with vibrant, pop colors. I didn’t really think about the style in the beginning. It came naturally and was influenced by themes that have long obsessed me: the dialectic of inner/outer space, the ambivalence of life, the poetics of space, the feminine… LINK

The Art We’re Obsessed with in June 2024 | June 19, 2024 by Olivia Horn for Artsy
Vietnamese-born, Paris-based painter Sophie-Yen Bretez’s Time is the seas’ expanse Time, it is all in one And in its womb – The sun abundance (2024) makes a vibrant addition […] the contrast of soft pastel color gradients with sharp lines; the way the stylish Poul Henningsen lamp in the foreground plays off the sunset behind it; the naked nonchalance and graphicness of Bretez’s figures. LINK

Sophie-Yen Bretez: Summer, Dreamlike Surrealism, Abundance | May 7, 2024 by Marian Coma for Vein Magazine
[Translated] Bretez uses reverse voyeurism to question and redefine our relationship to the naked female body, creating a dynamic where women are not at the disposal of the viewer, but maintain a powerful autonomy. LINK

The Painstakingly Pleasant Task of Emoting Emotions: An Interview with Sophie-Yen Bretez | July 27, 2023 by Akeem K. Duncan for Quiet Lunch
I want to testify to the intimate and the universal through the narrative whether painted or written through my poems: how the story of personal memories & feelings can lead to a broader reflection on political, societal, philosophical, existential issues. LINK

Essential Highlights of International Women Artists’ Art Week | June 10, 2023 by Joanne Shurvell for Forbes
The artist’s vibrant surrealist paintings elicit questions on self-expression and the social conformities imposed on women. LINK

Sophie-Yen Bretez: Powerful, Despite it All | June 3, 2024 by Art Plugged
Rooting her artistic practice in self-awareness Bretez, a self-taught artist is inspired by the freedom found in observing her own experiences and simultaneously translating them into an enigmatic visual language. LINK