A highly individualized still life that looks just like a photograph
with a lot of grain. It’s so sensitive and textured that I’m simply amazed that
anyone could create this by only using pencil. I enjoy the edge definition of
the fruit through value alone, a masterful work. |
Three pears framed with an intimate, narrow focus is the focus. I believe
that Alf is attempting to show that similar objects are all unique, because
they all have minor differences, just like people. Value and texture in equal combination create this composition more than any
other element. Edges, cast and reflected shadows and both soft and rigid
surfaces are created through abrupt value differences. The work is achromatic
and appears to be void of lines, when
actually line is used to create the entire composition.
Spatial depth is dramatic, and built through (again) value contrast calibration
(strong to the front, blended to the background). Diminishing detail and a
little overlap are also used. Alf uses the picture frame as a supportive element
only; it does not add drama but reinforces the compositions near-symmetry.
The three subjects in this work are similar, but their very subtle differences
shine through too. Of course, their forms are biomorphic, and these are
countered by the straighter, yet subtler, edges built into the background. The
full value range is used, and very
deliberately so. All edges are blurred to a degree, but there is balance
between which ones are rigid and which ones are soft. I would argue the point with the most tension is the double figure, where the
two stark values are placed together. Next comes the repeating shape of the
first two. The table and background do get residual attention because of how well
Alf rendered their textures (hard and soft).
An observer is placed quite close to the subject, almost as if she or he were
shrunk and placed on the table. The decision to render one pear in isolation from the other two shows the
artists amazing instincts. This is a work that is in a class by its own because
of the marvelous way Alf uses a handful of elements to create a rich,
nearly photo-realistic and sensitive work.
No comments:
Post a Comment