A new exhibition by one of the internet’s favourite local artists, Libby Haines, is opening in Melbourne this weekend.

For the past four years, she’s been selling her original paintings in weekly drops to her 110,000 followers on Instagram, somehow managing to hold five solo showcases in the meantime.

But her latest exhibition, called Sore Eyes, marks a departure from her typical subject matter of still-life in favour of immersive portraits of ‘intimate moments’ from her life.

The concept was inspired by a 1907 painting The Yellow Scale by Czech artist František Kupka — a piece that’s been described as one of the most arresting and original self-portraits ever painted.

‘The portrait instantly struck me, the intensity of the yellows, his hand casually cast back holding the cigarette, and the calm confidence of his gaze,’ Libby says.

After recreating the renowned artwork with herself as the subject, Libby channelled a similar energy to paint a collection of 18 large format pieces featuring depictions of figures in casual, ‘almost unremarkable scenes’, filled with moody colours.

Gestural brushstrokes and unusual angles fill these artworks with a sense of intimacy, while retaining the same playful edge Libby’s become known for.

The pieces will be on show in Collingwood from September 12 – September 14.

Purchases can be made via online auction from 8pm tonight, Thursday September 11 through Libby’s website here.

See the full catalogue here and attend the exhibition at 47 Derby Street, Collingwood, VIC.