Figure sleeping 1979

Harriet Korman made this painting, "Figure sleeping," with strokes of acrylic on canvas. The apparent simplicity of the piece belies the labor involved in its creation. The acrylic paint has been applied directly, in blocks of solid colour, and their arrangement creates a composition that is both representational and abstract. See how the artist uses color to convey a sense of form and depth? The layering of shapes creates a visual puzzle for the viewer, and reflects an awareness of art history. Yet, the work's handmade quality also acknowledges the traditions of craft. The process of applying layers of acrylic paint reveals both the hand of the artist, and invites us to consider the relationship between the artwork, the modes of production, and capitalism, in which the artist is also a laborer. Considering the materials, making, and context helps us fully understand the meaning of an artwork like this, and challenges traditional distinctions between fine art and craft.