The phrase "new paintings" refers to a set or collection of artworks that are recently created, completed and finished. These could be works of an artist who has just produced them or pieces acquired by a gallery or collector within a short period of time. The term can also refer to new additions to an existing body of work, such as in the case of an artist continuing their series with fresh creations. In essence, "new paintings" signifies art that is contemporary and up-to-date, reflective of current styles or trends within the art world.