August 25, 2010

A New Painting: "Taut"

Taut, egg tempera on calfskin parchment, 7 x 5 1/4 inches


I've named this painting for the feeling of its composition––tight, simple, dramatic––and the pull of rope at the upper right. I occasionally make paintings that please me deeply, and this is one of them; something in the minimalist clarity and rich color is very satisfying. It may not resonate the same way with other eyes, but I'm always interested in whatever reactions come my way.

(If you click on the image, you will see an enlargement close to actual size, which is true of all my posts on recent paintings.)

8 comments:

  1. Hi Altoon - Been talking with Clare W about your work, and I see in these recent paintings that, though your approach to imagery and iconography has evolved over time, your connection to the unique history of American painting remains fully apparent. This group of works seem to me a poetic tribute to the US agricultural tradition, its functional beauty, and a reminder that it could disappear from our world altogether unless we can preserve its essential role in our present and future as a nation. Love the site! Rob Edelman

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  2. hi Rob, so nice to hear from you. Thanks for your thoughtful and eloquent comment.

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  3. I think this painting may be contagious - I found myself really zooming in on some construction equipment this morning when I went out after seeing your image.
    the simple forms and really dense color are an amazing combination here.

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  4. thanks so much, rappel; I couldn't be happier than to influence the way someone sees the world.

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  5. 'Taut' is so well named ...it is that to a T. The colour is quite superb and the composition is just perfection!

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  6. Sophie, I'm pleased you like this painting, and its title.

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  7. She's a dangerous beauty, this painting. Where is she pulling us and
    do we want to go? Yes!

    Beautiful! Take me there.

    Myrna

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  8. wow, Myrna, what a unique compliment! thank you.

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