Blue 

Milt Kobayashi's 'Blue', presents an evocative portrait, capturing the sitter's likeness through bold brushstrokes. Kobayashi emerged as an artist during a period of shifting cultural attitudes towards representation, particularly in the portrayal of women. Kobayashi avoids idealized beauty. The woman's gaze is direct, yet somewhat vulnerable, inviting us to consider the complexities of her inner life. The striking blue of the subject's clothing juxtaposes the warm tones of her skin and hair, creating a visual tension that mirrors the emotional push and pull within the portrait. This juxtaposition perhaps challenges traditional representations of women, which often prioritized passive beauty over individual expression. Kobayashi once said, "I want to capture the essence of a person, not just their physical appearance." The work is not just a likeness, but an exploration of identity, emotion, and the silent dialogues we have with ourselves. It invites us to reflect on how we see, and how we are seen.