Redpath is normally associated with colourful and rugged paintings, in which the paint was often applied with a palette knife. She painted landscapes, interiors and still-lifes - the latter often in 'tilted' perspective. However this self-portrait in chalk shows a different side to the artist. Instead of her usual bright colours, the artist has used a reduced palette of grey tones. With her jacket buttoned up to the neck and her hair tied back, Redpath looks rather serious and severe as she stares out of the picture at the viewer.