Abstraction White Rose 1927

Georgia O’Keeffe painted this close-up of a white rose, sometime in the first half of the twentieth century. It’s painted in oil, with such soft gradations of light and shadow that the flower’s petals seem to swirl before our eyes. O'Keeffe made this painting during a time of transition in American art. As American artists sought a unique voice, O'Keeffe challenged traditional artistic norms. Her focus on the sensuality of natural forms challenged the male-dominated art world. As such, it was interpreted by some critics as feminine, an interpretation that O'Keeffe rejected. To gain a deeper appreciation of this painting, it is important to consider the cultural and historical context in which it was made. One might consult the archives of the art institutions of the time, read period publications, or look to the artist's personal writings. When we interpret art, we interpret the institutions that shape art too.