The Party 1968

Jack Davis made this painting 'The Party' in the twentieth century. It's a wild, anarchic riot of figures made with loose, expressive lines and vibrant colours. Davis doesn't seem too concerned with perfect rendering, but rather with capturing a feeling of energy, chaos and celebration. I'm drawn to the way he handles the watercolour - thin washes layered over bold, inky outlines. See how the colours bleed and mingle, creating a sense of movement and blurring the boundaries between figures. Check out the elephant in the centre, carrying revellers on its back. The way it's rendered, with its bulging eyes, captures the surreal, slightly unhinged quality of the party. Davis’ work reminds me of the graphic energy and social satire of artists like Philip Guston, although Davis brings a lighter, more comedic touch. It’s a reminder that art doesn’t always have to be serious, it can also be a joyous, messy, and slightly absurd celebration of life.