Muse

Comment

Comment by Resident Curator on August 27, 2016 at 8:15pm

Curator’s Comments:

 

I find artists’ sketchbooks often provide the viewer intimacy with glimpses into the imaging process, without the editing which is inevitable in the development of the finished work.  Journals are traditionally small, while it isn’t noted here. While I see Muse as a finished piece unto itself rather than the visual germination of an idea or image, it does give entry into the artist’s decision making process with a somewhat reflective stance on the obstacles of creative choice.  Batik, wax encaustic and printmaking are distant mountains.  While colorful, the artist is physically separated by them through a long and indirect pathway, and of course the spiral wire binder of the actual substrate.  The figure appears forlorn, if not stymied by the distance as her gaze moves us away rather than towards her medium.  This division creates a strong formal and conceptual diptych.  Interestingly, the figure’s facial expression is down turned while still maintaining a rather lighthearted style and mood in the painting.  I am a bit curious about her costume.  Her exaggerated buttons and flowers produce a jovial animation, while her hat suggests a jester.  Is she artist or muse?