Steel Feather 

Editor: We're looking at Sarah Joncas' oil painting, "Steel Feather." The limited palette and the stark composition centering on one eye really give it an intense, almost haunting, feeling. What catches your eye in this portrait? Curator: The fragmentariness is compelling. Why show only half a face? We are only seeing a portion of the whole person, prompting questions about identity. The feather itself is iconic—linked to flight, dreams, and freedom in numerous cultures. But “steel”? The title suggests something strong, unyielding… even manufactured. How do these two contrasting symbols co-exist here? Editor: I see what you mean. The title hints at something almost contradictory. Is she trying to reconcile these two opposing ideas? Curator: Perhaps. Or maybe Joncas is suggesting that the pursuit of freedom, or the fulfillment of dreams, often requires strength and even a degree of artifice, which is supported by the artifical eyelashes and expertly applied makeup. Consider how feathers are often adornments, displayed and collected, rather than simply objects of natural function. This might shift the traditional symbolism entirely. What do you make of that emerald eye, almost jewel-like in its intensity? Editor: It’s captivating. It really holds the gaze. It brings all these interesting themes into focus: beauty and artificiality. I never thought about it that way. It definitely changes my perspective of the portrait. Curator: It also changes my perspective! Seeing beauty itself as a sort of practiced craft. These details enrich my experience with art!