Linda Tracey Brandon, "Maddie in the Act of Painting," oil, 12" x 12"
The Butler's annual juried exhibition is open to artists 18 years of age or older who reside within the 50 United States or U.S. territories. This year's exhibition features 91 works culled from nearly 1000 entries. Butler Director Dr. Louis Zona notes that the selected works make for an impressive grouping given the accomplished skill level, range of subjects, and diverse styles that are represented. Perhaps more importantly, this highly selective cross section offers a view of current trends in American Painting.
It is worth noting that out of this heady and competitive mix a portrait garners best in show.
Good portraiture is like good theater--the best offers a compelling view of human nature and the idiosyncrasies that inform individual character. Linda Tracey Brandon's painting, "Maddie in the Act of Painting," does just that, with an expressive intent that is both intimate and immediate. Just in case you missed the point, the work's title further signals the artist's true intent -- to portray the psycho-social currency of portraiture. For Brandon, it is in the very act of painting that the artist, and now the viewer, can truly know another.
Brandon notes, "I'm deeply curious about other human beings so portraiture is a good fit for me. I consider myself an advocate for the people I paint and I try to give them my best representation based on the facts. I'm trying to enter and express the subject's character, much like an actor enters a character. A portrait is about character." It may come as no surprise that Brandon studied communications as an undergraduate, did community theater, and worked in television as a reporter and anchor for a few years. She subsequently studied and practiced law.
Portrait painting came later for Brandon. She adds, "It was critical for me to support myself and I had no idea how to do it in the art world. I always drew and painted the figure, but that style of working has only recently become fashionable again. Gratefully I found Portraits, Inc. and they provided me the opportunity to do the work I wanted to do."
As a portrait painting viewer, I am grateful too. A portrait offers an uninterrupted view of another human's face--and ultimately a gaze that inspires a true emotional connection. How we humans thrive on this bond and yet how infrequently are we afforded the opportunities (or wherewithal) to connect with others in our lifetime. But cheer up! I would argue that the best portrait paintings offer an emotive charge that in many ways transcends everyday life because it occurs within the rarefied context of an aesthetic experience. For viewers like you and me that understand and appreciate that all important intent, portraits are a priceless gift to the world.
The Butler Institute of American Art's 78th National Midyear Exhibition is on view through September 7, 2014. For further information, visit www.butlerart.com or contact Kathryn Earnhart 330.743.1107, ext. 123, or e-mail info@butlerart.com.
Portraits, Inc. was founded in 1942 in New York on Park Avenue. Over its 70-year history, Portraits, Inc. has carefully assembled a select group of the world’s foremost portrait artists offering a range of styles and prices. Recognized as the industry leader, Portraits, Inc. provides expert guidance for discerning clients interested in commissioning fine art portraits.
