A black and white photograph of Ava Gardner (a famous American actress back in the 40’s.) started me on this piece.
Originally thinking that I would venture back to the Art Deco that I am so fond of.
Lady in a hat etc etc.
I then started to play with colours. Deciding on using blues as an undertone.
Then the whole project changed into something quite different.
This piece seamlessly weaves together elements of art deco elegance, surrealism, and a touch of futurism. At the forefront of this 100cm x 70cm pastel on pastelmat board, a lady’s enigmatic visage emerges, a symphony of colours and contrasts. Playing with light and shadow, rendering half of her face in a deep, mysterious blue shadow while the other half bathes in the warmth of natural skin tone. This duality creating an intriguing tension, suggesting a narrative of both human vulnerability and machine-like resilience. The background hints of metallic sheen transporting the viewer to a realm where time and reality blur. The lady’s hair a striking interplay of rust and blue, adds a dynamic element, echoing the fusion of tradition and innovation.
“Ephemeral Fusion” takes on an ethereal quality, as if the subject exists on the border between two worlds, perhaps half human, half machine. This blending of organic and mechanical elements inviting contemplation on the intersection of humanity and technology. The placement of patches of light reflects off the lady’s skin, adding a touch of realism to the surreal atmosphere, capturing fleeting glimpses of both the inner and outer worlds.
We certainly live in a different age. Exciting yet scary –