Terra 2018

Zoe Hawk created ‘Terra’ with traditional oil paints to give it a rich and lasting quality. The painting, despite its surreal qualities, employs very familiar art materials. Hawk uses oil paint to imbue the scene with an almost dreamlike quality, smoothing the surfaces and blending colors to create a sense of otherworldly stillness. Notice the detailed work in the rendering of the girls' clothing, which contrasts with the more loosely defined background. The process of layering the oil paint gives depth to the landscape, emphasizing the rough texture of the rocky terrain. The meticulous attention to detail in the brushwork suggests a labor-intensive process, reflective of the care and time dedicated to traditional painting techniques. This emphasis on process elevates 'Terra' beyond a mere representation, inviting viewers to contemplate the relationship between skill, labor, and artistic expression. It makes you consider: what kind of work does it take to make an artwork?