Isabella Guthrie McCosh 1908 - 1909

John White Alexander painted this portrait of Isabella Guthrie McCosh using oil on canvas. The materiality of oil paint allows for rich colors and subtle gradations, seen in the modeling of McCosh’s face. But what about the making of the portrait itself? The work begins with the preparation of the canvas, its stretching and priming, already a skilled endeavor. The artist then builds up layers of paint, manipulating its texture and opacity. Notice how the brushwork is more visible in the background, creating a sense of depth. The tools Alexander employed were relatively simple: brushes, palette knives, and a palette to mix colors. Yet, the skill lies in his control of these materials, his ability to capture the likeness and character of his sitter. This process of painting, though seemingly straightforward, involves a complex interplay of hand, eye, and mind, blurring any presumed lines between art and craft. When we consider the time invested, we can appreciate the true value and artistry of such a portrait.