Attitude in Paint

11x14

acrylic on hardboard

This painting was inspired by a visit my daughter and I took to the art museum, our last one before everything changed.

The museum has played a significant role in my life. As a young artist, I attended programs and workshops there. Later, as a teacher, I brought my students to experience the same. I even helped many of them build portfolios to apply for the museum’s scholarship opportunities. And, of course, I brought my own kids, hoping to pass on a love for art and creativity.

On this particular visit, I decided to take a grown-up step and support the museum the way it had supported me. I purchased a yearly membership. Ironically, we never got to use the rest of the membership because... COVID.

Still, we had a wonderful day. After exploring the exhibits, we capped it off with lunch at an art-themed restaurant. Although my daughter isn’t an artist herself, she has a genuine appreciation for art, which means a lot to me.

At the end of our visit, she asked what my favorite pieces were. I pointed out two, and she stepped in close to examine The Yellow Scale by artist František Kupka. That moment sparked the inspiration for my own work.

What draws me to Kupka’s painting is the way he uses yellow; it’s masterful. And I can’t resist the model’s expression, completely dismissive. He’s clearly holding court and can’t be bothered. In other words, “You are dismissed!” I love it.

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An Artist's Journal:Paintings by Felicia Marshall

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