Lady in Top Hat 

Editor: Here we have "Lady in Top Hat" by Boris Grigoriev, done in acrylic paint. It's a striking portrait; the lady’s red gloves really pop against the cool tones of her dress and the backdrop. What strikes you about it? Curator: It’s interesting how Grigoriev plays with the codes of representation, isn't it? This isn’t just a straightforward portrait; it's a commentary on the image of women in the early 20th century. The top hat, traditionally a male garment, is placed on a woman. What does this juxtaposition suggest to you about societal expectations of women? Editor: Perhaps it is about female empowerment, that she is breaking societal boundaries? Curator: Exactly! The “New Woman” of the early 20th century was pushing back against Victorian norms. The First World War dramatically changed the role of women in public life. This piece almost acts as propaganda – visual encouragement and empowerment for the shift in culture and mindset regarding women’s place in the world. Notice how her gaze meets ours, almost challenging us. Where do you think this work might have been displayed in its time, and what message was the artist trying to get across? Editor: I imagine it could be hung in galleries or even public spaces as an embodiment of the modern, independent woman! Curator: Precisely. It’s about reclaiming agency and defying expectations. It’s a powerful piece of visual rhetoric. Editor: I’ve never thought of portraiture in quite that light before! Curator: It's all about context, and what the artist wants to say about a given place and time. I will be sure to view the painting with an intent to consider its relation to cultural mindset moving forward!