Geddes

Geddes is the portrait of a young woman whose emotions range from pensive and introspective to resentful and resigned.

The transience of the sentiment depicted is what creates a strong pull in the piece.

This artwork originates from my Toronto atelier in 2017 where I studied portraiture, I have revisited "Geddes" for my recent solo exhibition which examined the theme of "Study in the Arts". The portrait, in oils, is a pillar of Western Art and this specific portrait was meant as a study for the purposes of practice; not intended as a final piece. It is therefore the authentic artifact of the process of learning.

For the exhibit, I refined the background of the artwork. What was a collection of abstract shapes in hues of green - the actual backdrop behind the model - worked against the emotions the sitter was setting forth. Therefore, it was revised with a classical mix of raw umber and black adorned with subtle abstracted wisps of pink fabrics in the darkness. The wisps create a sense of dynamism to counterbalance the stillness of the pose while representing the sitter’s inner turmoil.

A piece of this nature is best set alongside other portraits as the subject’s gaze can command attention in a room. A vertical row of small portraits can diffuse the intensity of the sitter's emotion while gracing the room of it’s artfulness.

This piece is sold accompanied by an authenticity certificate.

Oil on cotton canvas
16 x 20 in
2022


Shipping costs may be elevated because they cover shipping insurance for the piece's retail value, a large resistant box, extra packaging to preserve the work's integrity, and a tracking number.