Alice Neel; The Works.

I have huge respect for Alice Neel, as a painter, she changed the way that portraits are painted for future generations. She changed the opinions of the Art World, who thought that portraits were an old and used up source, and created a new invigortating subject, one that can be explored through the use of colour and technique. Neel was not interested in creating something the subject would be proud of, something to show their beauty and honour. Instead she would capture a person's essence, something that maybe even the subject wasnt aware of. By using loose brushstrokes and not being afraid of the use of colour she would create a character that was both interesting and fascinating to the eye.

Take this piece, Robert Smithson 1962, oil on canvas, its one of my personal favourites with the lumpy texture of the paint and the grungy colours. Its a care free piece, she isnt worried about making him happy, its about atmosphere and mood. Her brushstrokes show freedom and confidence about herself and her ability. Its this that I, and every other painter, aspire to, to be confident in ourselves and not to worry about mistakes. I espcially like his cheek, that has abviously been scarred by acne, the colours Neel has chosen are perfect to describe this in an abstract way.

Nancy and Olivia, 1967, oli on canvas, is a beautiful portrait of a new Mother and her baby. They both look petrified as they stare out at the viewer, they have been thrown into this together and while the Mother is scared of her new found responsibilities, she guards her child from the World, and the placement of both of their heads together shows her love and devotion.

The paint appears to be much thinner on this portrait, but Neels attention to colour is still apparent, as well as her signiture of outlining in blue paint. I really like her ability to capture such a personal moment between a Mother and Child.

Self Portrait, 1980, oil on cavas, marks a huge turning point in Neel's work. Never believing herself worthy to be in her own work, Neel finally created her first Self Portrait at the age of 80. It's a beautifully painted piece, the disregard for true colours always being a part of Neels work has emerged again in this, the use of green for shading, the rosy flushed cheeks, the blue outlines, it all works so well. Showing herself, finally, but instead of something to please herself, and her vainity, she has shown us something personal, sneaking us a peak at the real Alice Neel.