The Memorial Art Gallery is currently featuring the exhibit Paint Made Flesh, a collection of paintings in celebration of the human body. Each piece of artwork uniquely represents the human spirit through the canvas of skin and body.
I enjoyed The Hobo by John Currin (1999). There is something about this hobo girl that makes the viewer automatically like her. She appears endlessly joyful with a cherub-like face and rosy cheeks. Her small bag contains all of her worldly belongings, but she is by no means deprived of anything. Her voluptuous body shows that she is healthy and happy. Her face is youthful and glowing, yet her body isn’t as perfect. She makes no apologies for her sagging breasts and full mid-section. Confidence exudes from her and her optimism is contagious. I imagine her travels have given her experience in many cultures- but has not worn her out. I want to know this hobo, and hear about her travels. I’m sure we would become great friends. She would always be up for a grand adventure, or at least a good laugh.
There are dozens of paintings that will touch the audience, like The Hobo touched me. Many paintings contain anti-war themes. I never realized how the look of flesh can send such a powerful message. The human body represents age and experience. I recommend touring with a docent to learn the full story behind each painting, and the influences each artist incorporated in their work.
Paint Made Flesh is on display now through January 3rd 2010.
http://mag.rochester.edu/exhibitions/index.html#PaintMadeFlesh
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