Radiant Blue 2011

Bernadette Resha made this painting, Radiant Blue, using oil on canvas. Oh, the layers of light in those leaves! The electric-blue butterfly, with its delicate markings, looks as if it's just landed for a moment's rest. I can feel the artist studying the butterfly, trying to capture its ethereal quality. The dark shadows contrast with the bright light, creating a dramatic feeling. It's like Resha is celebrating the simple, fleeting beauty of nature. I can imagine her mixing those blues, the subtle strokes building up the wings bit by bit. There is a long history of artists painting butterflies: think of the still life painters and Dutch Masters! Resha enters into the conversation with a work that shimmers, like a dream. Like all paintings, it’s an invitation to slow down, observe, and feel.