Curving Around 1960

Gil Elvgren made this painting, "Curving Around," sometime in the mid-20th century, probably with oil paint. Look at the way Elvgren blends the colors, especially in the background. It's so smooth, like he's trying to hide his process. But then you see the red go-kart, and it’s like, bam! So bright and unapologetic. The color is almost cartoonish, but that’s what makes it so engaging. And check out the shadows under the kart and the model; they're not just grey, but a mix of hues that give a sense of depth. Now, focus on the model's expression. It’s playful, right? Like she’s not taking herself too seriously, which is what makes these kinds of images so great. Elvgren reminds me of some of the Old Masters, but he also looks forward to artists like Lisa Yuskavage, who also play with these ideas of beauty and desire. It’s all one big conversation, isn’t it?