Old Johnnie’s Wife 1913

Robert Henri made this portrait, "Old Johnnie's Wife," with oil paint, using visible brushstrokes, like he was in a hurry. The blues and reds feel very bold against that dark background, and give the image a stark feel. I like how you can see the paint's texture – it's not trying to hide anything. Look at the way the pinkish colour of the woman’s skin against the folds of her shawl are handled. See how the paint seems almost sculptural? That little white squiggle under her chin that suggests the fastening for her bonnet or shawl? I love that. It’s like Henri is saying, "Here it is, the painting, the thing itself." It feels honest, not fussy. Henri’s work always reminds me a little of Manet; both artists seem interested in capturing a direct experience, the thing seen. It's like they're both saying, "Let's keep it real, but also, let's make it art." And that's the tricky, beautiful balance of painting, isn't it?