Retablo 1937

This "Retablo" was painted by Ranka S. Woods, but we don't know exactly when. It’s all about the process, you can see the underlayers and history of the surface. The first thing I notice is the cracked surface, like an old fresco, adding a layer of time and texture. The colour palette is simple, earthy reds, greens, and browns, giving it a grounded, spiritual feel. Look at the way the paint is applied; it's thin in places, letting the texture show through, and thicker in others, creating depth. The sword in the Virgin's chest isn't just an element of the image, it’s a visceral mark, boldly placed. It's a gesture that cuts through the surface. It reminds me of some of the early Italian paintings or even outsider art. There’s a raw, honest quality to it, a sense of direct communication, as if Woods is inviting us into a personal and ongoing conversation about faith, pain, and resilience. It's beautiful!