Janet and Lilies 1961

John Bratby made this painting, Janet and Lilies, with what looks like oil paint, and a heck of a lot of it. The textures here are so physical; the paint is loaded onto the canvas, each stroke distinct and full of energy. Look at the way Bratby builds up the face with these impasto marks. Notice the dabs of red and yellow around the cheek and jawline, how they almost vibrate against the cooler blues and whites. It's like he’s sculpting with color, not just describing what he sees, but really building a presence. The whole thing feels raw and immediate. The influence of Van Gogh is clear in this work. He's one of the masters of expressive brushwork and emotional intensity. Just as with Van Gogh, with Bratby, the painting isn’t just a picture; it’s an event.