"The Plight Of Betty Guard" 2019
Acrylic on Board, 910x450
SOLD
(Premier Award Winner for Tasman National Art Awards)
Judges' Comments
This work appeals on many levels; demonstrating a sophisticated technique in acrylics - it has an intriguing narrative and even if the viewer doesn't know the story there are many visual cues to pick up on. It is an unusual and contemporary take on the history genre. The juxtaposition of new and old also raises the curiosity of the viewer. The figure depicted has an arresting presence, engaging the viewer with a hypnotic stare. It is well painted with great materiality conveyed in a number of the elements such as the lace work and the feather. This unique painting showed a high level of technique and the fusion between an historical portrait and an almost "steampunk" ambience created a mysterious and elusive quality.