Painting

August 7, 2023

David Hockney’s Portrait of Harry Styles Will Exhibit at the National Portrait Gallery

When the COVID-19 pandemic swept the globe, life came to a standstill as closures effectively shut down the world. That included the National Portrait Gallery's David Hockney exhibit, which had only been open for 20 days. Now, the London Museum is restaging David Hockney: Drawing from Life, and expanding it to include 33 recent portraits. Among the new entries is a delightful portrait of Harry Styles, which Hockney painted in spring 2022.

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July 14, 2023

Artist Recreates 18th-Century Romantic “Lover’s Eyes” Tradition by Painting Eyes on Vintage Plates

In the late 1700s, a romantic trend swept through wealthy families in England, Europe, and even America. Called “lover's eyes,” or “eye miniatures,” these small paintings were commissioned to depict the eye or eyes of spouses, loved ones, and children. While during the Georgian period (1700s to early 1800s) they were worn as accessories like bracelets and pendants, contemporary artist Susannah Carson is reimagining this art form.

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July 2, 2023

Moody Settings Reveal What People Are Feeling in Uncanny Portrait Paintings

New York-based artist Xiao Wang masterfully sets the mood in his portraits with uncanny environments. Although realistically rendered, the color palettes have a slightly distorted quality that speaks to what each figure is feeling or thinking at the moment. From swirling violet clouds to blue-toned leaves, these backgrounds help us understand what Wang's subjects are trying to say—but cannot. Originally from China, Wang's experience as an immigrant has a major influence on his portraits.

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My Modern Met

Celebrating creativity and promoting a positive culture by spotlighting the best sides of humanity—from the lighthearted and fun to the thought-provoking and enlightening.