Carol Burmel, New York, New York 

This is Daniel Greene's portrait of Carol Burmel, made with oil on canvas. The sitter's gaze, directed downward, evokes a sense of introspection, almost melancholy. This motif of downward gaze can be seen in depictions of Mary Magdalene throughout art history, suggesting humility, repentance, or deep sorrow. Her gaze is not just a physical action but a powerful symbol that transcends time. Think of the women painted by the Pre-Raphaelites. The introspective mood and the patterned background create a powerful resonance, engaging viewers on a subconscious level, tapping into our collective memory of similar figures. The cyclical progression of this symbol is a testament to its enduring power, resurfacing and evolving across centuries and continents.