When it comes to art I’m one of those awful critics who ‘knows what I like’ but has little understanding of the artistic process, style, technique etc. I do, however, have a wide and eclectic taste in ‘what I like’. The Wing Commander, on the other hand, has a very specific dislike of religious art and will speed through galleries of endless Madonna with Child variations. Nevertheless, we both enjoy a good gallery stroll when we get the chance.
So, what do I like? I like the Impressionists, I like Dali and Picasso, I like seascapes, I like Art Deco and nouveau and I like female portraits. I began to appreciate the latter about 15 years ago on a trip to St Petersburg and a visit to the Russian Museum there. The National Gallery in Edinburgh also has some fine examples. I can’t remember which specific portrait kindled my interest. It was probably a painting of a wife of a wealthy merchant or statesman, a woman only considered important because of her spousal attachment, but I was drawn to them. Maybe I am imagining a story behind the eyes staring out at me but it is a story I rarely see in male portraits.
Today, at the Rijksmusuem there were several examples that caught my eye. Here are two that I particularly liked. I hope you find joy in them too.
Significantly Different 