For a girl who quit nicotine this semester, too much of it is depicted in my body of work - seeing it glorified in such scale and detail feels ironic but nostalgic. The realistic collaged oil painting features fast objects that celebrate the specific kitsch filth of Hobart’s nightlife through the lens of a wistful admirer. My first attempt at painting with oils found me crying, sweating and aching more than I ever have over a bottle of Little Fat Lamb – maybe art does imitate life more? I felt an accomplishment by the time and energy I spent perfecting the supposedly worthless party objects, like I was finally giving them their deserved credit for all the good they have done on my nights out.