Archives for January 2010
Abduction of Europa
14 January 2010 | art, drawing | No Responses
Europa and the Bull (graphite, 29x20 cm)
This sketch is another narrative I am working with. It is the Abduction of Europa, or Europa and the Bull, or the Rape of Europa from ancient Greek Mythology. Zeus deceives Europa by transforming himself into a white bull for the purpose of seducing her. Europa trusts him and climbs on his back for a ride. He seizes his opportunity, runs to the sea and swims with her to the Island of Crete.
I revisited one of the greatest paintings by Titian based on this story at Boston’s Gardner Museum recently.
The Narrative of Perseus
5 January 2010 | art, drawing | 1 Response
Perseus (12x18cm, graphite)
Perseus is shown in a sketch with his winged sandals, curved sword, helmet and shield, as he prepares to slay the sea creature Ceto, thereby rescuing Andromeda from her terrifying plight. I recently executed a small painting of the subject, which has been exhibited at my gallery.
Themes for paintings: Susanna and the Elders.
2 January 2010 | art, drawing | No Responses
Susanna and the Elders. (25x19 cm, charcoal)
Susanna at her bath, realizes she has unwelcome company.
This is another theme which I have painted in the past year. I have a new version in process.
Themes for paintings: Orpheus and Eurydice
2 January 2010 | art, drawing | No Responses
Orfeus' last glimpse of Eurydice. (24x19 cm, charcoal)
Orpheus has brought Eurydice back from death with his singing and lute-playing. Doubting that Eurydice is still following, he looks back and she sinks back to the underworld forever.
This theme is one of a group I am painting in oil, to be exhibited in summer 2010.