Archibald John Motley Jr.
Portrait of My Grandmother, 1922
Emily Simms Motley is portrayed by her grandson in such a loving, tender way. Emily was born in slavery of the south (Kentucky). She lived in the south during the Civil War. She was freed and lived with her family on the south side of Chicago until her death. Here she is at the age of 80 years old.
This is such a tender portrait and one that made me stop and take notice as I was walking by. Emily is looking right at the viewer and I as the viewer felt the need to look right at her, to see her and know that she has a story to tell.
In discussing this painting Dr. Safra points out the shadow. The shadow as a symbol of her other life, the life of slavery, before coming to Chicago with her family.
Look at these hands. They tell of her age, her struggle, her work.
Archibald John Motley Jr.
Detail of Portrait of My Grandmother, 1922
I am so happy to highlight is stunning portrait by Archibald Motley of his grandmother for July's portrait theme.
Sources:
For a great lecture in which curator of the National Gallery of Art, Nancy Anderson, talks about the acquisition of this painting see this video.
For another lecture about his painting by Edmond J Sofra see this video.
Art Talk Series Highlights
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2018
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2019
Art Talk: Art Connects Us
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