Cordelia's Honey...

Comment

Comment by Resident Curator on September 7, 2021 at 4:12pm

Curator’s Comments:  

 

Cordelia’s Honey-Spun from local fruits and flowers is a joyful portrait, reflecting natural abundance. The classic presentation of a female figure with fruits and flowers recalls historical portrait artists from Ruben’s through Gauguin, as well as living painters. The subject of this piece is decidedly contemporary, perhaps because of the hairstyle and expression more than surroundings.  I appreciate the cool blue highlights that move from the sky into the figure’s flesh and clothing.  The light moves through the space, and gives form to the objects through directionality.  I find it interesting to revisit your paintings, and appreciate other portraits, which seem to evenly divide between subjects being aware of our observation, versus those with an averted gaze.  The individuals are specific in expression and identity, but the objects accompanying them appear more archetypal or symbolic of vocation.  The title given to Cordelia does seem to be an outlier, moving beyond straightforward identification, and into a sweetness in the making of honey that isn’t obviously present.  I do hope you consider posting new work if you’re active on the site.