Attending painting exhibitions widens my vision as I contemplate works of art that grab my attention and have something to say to me. I try to understand the depth, the beauty and on the practical side – the technique that was used to create something so intriguing. My heart starts racing as I long to probe the potential discoveries that lie ahead of me on my journey as an artist.
While visiting New York, I was blessed to participate in “The Modern Portrait” exhibition in New York at the Portrait’s Inc., Gallery and to attend the “John Singer Sargent” exhibition at the Metropolitan Museum of Art during the same trip. When I see what modern artists are doing with some of the same tools used by many historical artists throughout the ages, it’s invigorating. To be able to call many of the contemporary portrait artists I admire a friend, is an indescribable gift that I cherish.
Carol with friends and fellow artists – Ellen Cooper and Michelle Rushworth outside the gallery.
Carol and Michael Gormley, Curator of Portrait’s, Inc. Gallery New York.
“The Modern Portrait” exhibition was an invitational exhibition judged by the curator of the Salmagundi Club. I was thrilled when my painting “Jake” was awarded the “Whistler” prize.
The gift of friendship expanded when I had the rare privilege of studying the masterful paintings of Sargent with some of the best creative minds in the country. So often as artists, we work for hours on end alone in our studios. Analyzing and examining paintings together was helpful in gleaning more depth and insight at what hung before us. After intense examinations of the spectacular paintings, we collapsed on the front steps of the Met with lighter conversation, people watching, and the glorious afternoon sun encompassing us. We ended the evening with a walk in central park talking about life and enjoying each other’s company. I walked away a richer person.
Below are a few images from one of Sargent’s paintings that I found to be completely mesmerizing. The beauty of all the paintings and trying to take it all in – wore out my little brain. Thankfully the museum allowed us to take photographs. The iPhone can actually be a blessing.
Luscious! Exquisite! Inspiring!