Alice Neel, " Geoffrey Hendricks and Brian"

  Of all the subject to select from in painting, I believe portraiture can be the most difficult.  Not only must the artist be able to handle the medium, but also to capture a likeness, usually to satisfy the tastes of the subject.   So today we have one of the greatest portrait painters of the late 20th century, Alice Neel, (1900-1984).  
   This painting is taken from a career-spanning exhibition of her work that is now at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, which is a huge accomplishment signifying the acclaim she is now experiencing some 40 years after her death.  
  Neel had an extremely difficult life which I will not write about, but she is worth Googling.  What I want to write about is this painting.  It was done in 1978 when she was living in New York City.  I hope you find it as amazing as I do. 
   Let me point out a few things: first, much of the figures are outlined in a bright blue.  There is no specific color harmony as all colors are represented to some degree, with the possible exception of purple.   The composition is amazing.  So casual, as if a quick snapshot was taken and the bowl with fruit just happened to be on the table.  Yet, see how it all works.
The bowl/fruit heights the lower left corner, pointing up to the man in red.  Notice how one banana actually touches his elbow.  The men are united as partners, with the unbutton shirt suggesting their relationship.  Even the unusual color of the shadow behind them, pulls them together, and matches the shade of the sweater.   Both men are looking directly at us, not smiling, but not entirely unpleasant.  
And finally,  I love Neel's skill and technique with the brush.   Look close at those faces....amazing skill at creating such depth and feeling with strokes that look almost quick, loose.   Just wonderful!
   Geoffrey Hendricks and Brian was painted in 1978.  It is an oil on canvas measuring just a little more than 46 x 36 inches, so a sizable work.  It is now on exhibit at the Met in New York.  I was not able to locate information about who is today's owner.  
   Make Art a part of your life,  it's a beautiful thing to do.      
 

Comments

  1. Char HarguthMay 18, 2021 at 7:26 AM

    I did google her, and oh my, what a life!! I believe she experienced the depth of every human emotion and reveals it in her painting. She took charge of her life early on, and painted, with boldness, through her many challenges. I love the application of her strong positive strokes, and how creative she is in composing her still life's. She seems empathetic to her subjects, but gives them validity through her bright colors and daring representation. I am struck by the blue outlines and greenish shadows in this painting. They are a comfortable couple and she captures their expressions. What an amazing artist. Great choice - thankyou. As always , I like your details of the composition, and seeing things I miss!!

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