The Harvest 2018

Editor: Here we have Harmonia Rosales’ oil painting, "The Harvest," created in 2018. I’m really struck by how she presents a modern Madonna figure, but also the stark juxtaposition of symbols that evokes feelings of life and death. How do you interpret this work through a formalist lens? Curator: Indeed. Rosales presents a powerful arrangement here. Focusing solely on the internal elements, observe the contrast. The deep red drapery of the Madonna, against the earth-toned backdrop creates an interesting dynamism, wouldn’t you agree? Also, note how the figures are positioned, clustered in the center of the canvas; it directs your eye to the central image of mother and children, almost blocking out the pillars, snake and skull. This artistic composition provides an overwhelming sense of human protection and tenderness. Editor: Absolutely, it does. I see how the texture of the figures contrasts with the smoother rendering of the columns, and the red against the dark shades in the Madonna feels very intentional. Curator: Precisely. Consider also the lines: soft and rounded for the bodies, especially the Madonna and the children she cradles. Harsh straight and angled lines are on the base that leads up to the Madonna, or the skull that sits between them all. This juxtaposition further plays on themes of the painting without the viewer considering the cultural references. Now, why do you think Rosales uses a limited colour palette? Editor: Maybe to really emphasize the differences in texture, bringing forth elements the untrained eye might miss? That is the ultimate essence of neo-expressionism as an artistic style. Curator: Indeed. The artist carefully creates structure by juxtaposing harsh and soft contrasts of lines, figures, and colours, so one appreciates each figure and symbol. These internal dynamics can exist independent of any social narratives. Editor: It's fascinating to see how much one can learn through this sort of structured analysis. I will now analyze compositions focusing on the contrasts, and consider the palette used by the artist and their desired effects!