Jaudon, Valerie (1995). Big Springs [oil and gold leaf on canvas]. © Valerie Jaudon.

This work is an excellent example of how pure symmetry can be anything but stale. The horizontal halves are reflections of each other; a static stroke weight and speed are used. Jaudon’s treatment of the picture plane, soaring strokes and implied architectural elements create unmistakable interest. The creation of pointed webbings and roman arches create a graceful sense of depth. I feel the impression of gothic architecture in my chest. |

An objective subject is not possible to pull out of this beautifully intricate work. The impression of gravity, space and grace might be described as the “message”. This is done through a combination of gold leaf and oil on canvas. A single element presents itself first and foremost: dense line of consistent width. A slight outline of this stroke that is an extension of the compositions negative space is used to build hierarchy where strokes meet or overlap. Pattern is created by negative space.

Depth is created by a number of “weight bearing” elements; the soaring character of the lengthier lines imply a graceful sense of airiness, of open exposed doorways framed by the dominant lines. The elegant simplicity of this work is made possible because only two elements are used: line and space (which create shapes and a pattern). This describes dominance. Beyond that, the diagonal, straight, and curved stroke treatment, in addition to overall pure symmetry, explain this works equivalency.

There is an unmistakable sense of upward movement created in this work. The primary cause of this is the vertical direction of the longer strokes, complemented by the shape of the picture frame, and upward-pointing arrow shapes where a number of the lines merge. There are few clues (as I can tell) explaining with certainty where the viewer would be positioned. The dominant lines seem to form arches and webbings, and given how they are treated when they merge, this would put the viewer in a diminished position, looking up into a great height, in a similar manner to one who stepped into a gothic church.

In the end, the pitfalls of monotony were not an issue with this work of masterful symmetry. The grace of this paintings character, the interaction of its elements, and the emotions it evokes result in a truly unified work of art.