The Moon 2009

‘‘Each of my paintings is a mixture of things that I’m looking at, and my thoughts and imagination’. 🌙 Mary Fedden was born in Bristol in 1915, and was known for her expressive style which draws on a variety of diverse artistic influences. Can you identify any of the possible influences in this painting, from 2009? Which other artists does it remind you of? The flat canvas and angular shapes are reminiscent of Henri Matisse (1869-1954), while the whimsical composition evokes folk art and naïve art. 🖼️ ‘The Moon’ (2009) blends the traditional genres of still life and landscape. The oil painting depicts an angular ceramic jug alongside a translucent glass vase and three small oranges. These everyday objects sit atop a lilac surface. In the background, Fedden has painted a window which offers a glimpse onto a hilly landscape. The soft rolling shapes of the hills are satisfying and peaceful. Two trees can be seen in the far distance; their tiny scale gives the viewer an impression of the vast expanse of the land. A full moon watches over the scene, illuminating the dusky blue skyline. 🌃 For millennia, the moon has acted as a source of inspiration for artists around the world. Even today, it’s not uncommon to see someone stop in the street to snap a photo of the moonlight! The oldest surviving depiction of the moon in art is believed to be the ‘Nebra Sky Disc’ of 1800-1600 BCE. This Early Bronze Age circle is decorated with gold crescent shapes and stars, and was discovered in Germany in 1999. In her painting, Fedden uses the image of the moon to communicate stability and tranquillity. It is a reliable and enduring presence that guards the night sky and watches over the empty landscape. 🌚 The vivid contrasting colours and simple arrangement of objects seen in ‘The Moon’ characterise Mary Fedden’s distinctive modern style. The artist was the first woman tutor at the Royal College of Art, and taught a wealth of students… including a young David Hockney! 🎨 Take a close look at this painting. Do you like it? How does it make you feel? 👇💭 Editor: Lucy Jude Grantham