Profiles 1949

Curator: John Wells, born in 1907, created this work entitled "Profiles," and it's now held at the Tate. Editor: It's haunting. The stark contrast and muted palette create such a somber, introspective mood. Curator: Wells was deeply involved with the St. Ives School, where the emphasis was on the artist’s direct experience of the landscape and the materials employed to make art. You can see that here in the scratched surface. Editor: Yes, the texture is incredibly important. The scratched lines form these abstract faces, almost like memories fading in and out of view. And the composition, the way the two profiles interact, it’s almost like a conversation. Curator: Perhaps, or a reflection on the self. The use of line and shape to convey such a complex idea is remarkable, considering Wells’ background, we must ask: what's the process? What’s the artist thinking about as they make this? Editor: Well, no matter the process, it's a powerful piece. The simplicity of the lines belies its emotional depth. Curator: Indeed. It leaves one contemplating the nature of identity and the stories we carry within ourselves.