New Day 

Curator: Julie Bell’s “New Day”, an acrylic on canvas painting, depicts a great egret in flight over a landscape. Editor: Immediately, the sheer materiality strikes me. The painterly application of acrylic, thick in places, creates a wonderfully textured surface that shimmers like the morning light itself. Curator: The egret, a prominent symbol in many cultures, often represents purity, grace, and renewal. The fact that it’s captured taking flight reinforces this idea of fresh beginnings and a hopeful outlook, suggested by the title. Editor: And note how the bird isn't merely imposed upon the scene. The execution feels deeply process-driven, like the materials themselves—acrylics, canvas, brushes—have contributed significantly to the subject’s character. There’s a collaborative element happening here, between the painter's hand, and the behavior of these supplies in relation to her technique. Curator: Yes, it speaks to the artist’s understanding of the landscape tradition. While presented with a realistic style, the overall composition is more about capturing a feeling—a sense of serenity. Editor: I wonder about Bell’s labor. Considering that realism tends to necessitate precision and intense focus on accuracy, and with that handling acrylics can prove challenging as well. This can have some effects on the overall social context as this labor could impact the valuation of her work. Curator: Interesting. I'm also struck by the warm color palette dominated by shades of browns and reds that gives off feelings of heat, with subtle touches of cool blues suggesting a tranquil sky or distant body of water. It's visually harmonious, with the white bird acting as a focal point, leading the eye through the composition. Editor: It’s this kind of attention to the raw qualities and possibilities of the acrylic paints themselves which truly intrigues me. By understanding these materials and that's making a new form to express their artistic process that might contribute on valuing their work and labor. Curator: Seeing it all together allows us to better appreciate how she interprets established visual codes—in fresh ways. Editor: Absolutely, and analyzing that craft allows a deeper exploration for valuing this new form for artist Julie Bell and her acrylic work.