ELIZABETH WATT
FITZROY LIBRARY EXHIBITION SPACE
1 June - 29 August 2008
Existential Ladies
An exploration of the individuality of women
Altered State, oil on canvas, 60.5 x 46cms, 2005
This week I went to the Fitzroy Library to see the exhibition of work by Elizabeth Watt. The predominant theme of the show was the many ways in which a painter can depict the female nude. I found this particularly pleasing. It has always been a favourite subject in my own work.
In the large room, I went first to Altered State, well named, as it used in the nude ‘in section’ to form a pleasing design in soft rose and blue tones. Next to this work was a painting on a similar theme, Glimpses, cubist style, and more sophisticated than the previous work. This painting carried off this style in a much braver way. With a limited palette of lovely blues from clear blue to rich ‘grapey’ purples. I liked this one very much and clearly Elizabeth knew what she was about.
In a rather surprising break from the overall theme was number five, Serenade ... To me, this had an air of Spain. A group of interesting objects, a guitar, and sun symbol, a butterfly, flowers and a female torso. There is a story here, I’m sure; there must be a reason why this eclectic group of symbols is living so happily together. Fascinating too was the watchful eye spying on the onlooker from within the guitar.
The next part of my journey was to the small works gallery. Many pieces here, so I shall choose my favourites. Soft and classical was number nine, Female Form. Two female nudes from a back view, painted in the traditional style, soft fleshy colors and sensuous curves. A timeless and beautiful way to render this subject. Two other paintings in this section of the exhibition also excelled in the lovely curves and flesh tones of the nude. One, a lady of fulsome proportions, painted from a foreshortened angle and the other, a strongly formed torso. This work had a lovely smooth shapely outline and great light and shade.
In great contrast, having a quite political content, was Killing Women. It stated its message very clearly on how many in society today judges what they see as ‘worthwhile’ in women. Beauty, slimness, no wrinkles etc. From one who carries a few excess pounds, I can only say “Good on you Elizabeth.” A girl after my own heart! I was most impressed when I spotted the small nude worked in copper, Copper Nude. A jolly good job she made of it too. Very brave, and isn’t it great to have a go at something so different!
Serenade, acrylic on canvas, 77 x 61cms, 2004
I really liked the small works numbers seven and eight. One was a small frontal nude study in a blue theme, Nude with Cornflowers. Its companion piece was a back view in a red theme, Nude with Poppies. They made a charming pair. And should always be shown together. They compliment each other so well.
Next to this was a completely different style of work. A portrait in the cubist manner. Very cleverly done. And in the lovely blues and pinky sienna colors that Elizabeth uses so well. It was interesting to compare the portrait in this style to Facets which was the first painting in the exhibition. This was a mysterious picture. Two faces, one behind the other. The first was a normal portrait style face but behind it was a blue sad face. One could weave all sorts of stories into this work that I shall leave to the viewer. The works I have mentioned are just a few in this interesting show. I commend Elizabeth’s bravery in using so many different mediums. Both oil and acrylic on canvas, mixed media in some works, charcoal and pastel on paper, copper etching etc. A good show and well worth the visit. Keep up the good work Elizabeth.
Review by Yvonne Patton