Merienda 

Melissa Hefferlin's "Merienda," invites us into a space of casual repose through the structure of its composition and the texture of its materiality. The figure, viewed from above, anchors the scene with a playful subversion of perspective. Notice how the formal arrangement creates a grid-like structure, subtly dividing the composition into sections filled with distinct patterns and textures. The blue chair and floral pillow introduce blocks of vibrant color, contrasting with the earth-toned floor and rug to create a tension between the artificial and the natural. The play of light and shadow not only defines forms but also seems to question our perception of depth and space, suggesting a world where the familiar rules of perspective are gently bent. The texture of the painting, with its visible brushstrokes and material density, adds another layer to our interpretation, suggesting a deliberate engagement with the act of painting itself. In this way, the image invites us to consider how our sense of stability is often constructed from the very things we take for granted.