MARY-BLUE

The painting titled “Carolina: A Spectrum of Purity” is a modern portrait that merges the raw essence of human emotion with the vibrant playfulness of contemporary art. The subject’s face is central to the composition, her gaze is direct and piercing, engaging the viewer with an intimacy that is both striking and disarming.

Her features are painted with a softness and a realism that contrasts with the abstract geometric shapes and vivid colors that frame her face. These angular forms, in bold shades of yellow, blue, and pink, slice through the canvas, creating a dynamic tension with the natural curves of her cheeks, nose, and lips. The juxtaposition of the organic and the synthetic, the controlled and the chaotic, speaks to the multifaceted nature of identity in the modern world.

The skin tones are rendered in a palette that blends the warmth of life with the coolness of reflection, highlighting the subject’s contemplative mood. The application of color is both deliberate and free, with washes of pastel yellows and pinks, giving her a luminescent quality as if she is not just lit from the outside, but also glowing from within.

This portrait is not merely a depiction of a person; it is an exploration of the concept of purity—not just in the sense of innocence or cleanliness, but as an expression of the true, unadulterated self, free from the layers we often hide behind. The geometric shapes that surround her could represent the societal expectations and labels we are often boxed into, while her clear, unwavering eyes remind us of the personal truth and clarity that lies beneath.

This is the second large masterpiece in my portraiture series and is the culmination of a long and detailed study, focused intently upon the captivating youth and ethereal beauty of my cherished cousin, Caroline. In the process of immortalizing her essence upon canvas, I was struck with awe by the radiance and purity that emanated from her every feature, a sight that shall remain etched upon my artistic oeuvre and my very soul.

Caroline’s physical attributes are simply breathtaking, with her unblemished complexion and clear, purposeful gaze leaving a lasting impression upon all who behold her. Yet, the true depth of her magnificence extends far beyond the physical plane, as evidenced by the palpable sense of confidence, love, generosity, purity, and fairness that radiate from her very being.

Indeed, it is the divine quality of Caroline’s expression that truly sets her apart from all others, a rare and ineffable beauty that inspired me to delve deep into the essence of her spirit, capturing her very soul upon my canvas. This painting represents a watershed moment in my artistic journey, signifying a profound shift towards a more introspective and meaningful approach to portraiture, one that seeks to capture the heart and soul of each and every subject with warmth, empathy, and a deep appreciation for the true beauty that lies within.

Medium:  oil on canvas

Dimensions: 60″ x 40″ x 3″ 

Lot# 4506