Benjamin West c. 18th century

Editor: Here we see a portrait of Benjamin West, made by James Fittler. It seems like a very serious and formal depiction. What's your take on it? Curator: Well, he leans so comfortably on those books, doesn’t he? It’s as if he's saying, "Come, let us reason together." The portrait whispers of intellectual companionship. Editor: That's a lovely way to put it! I was so caught up in the serious tone I missed the invitation. Curator: Art is like a good conversation, always revealing new layers the more you listen. Editor: I'll keep that in mind!