Bodhisattva 2006

Bo Bartlett created this painting, called Bodhisattva, using oil on canvas. The medium itself is incredibly versatile. Oil paint is made by grinding pigment into oil – usually linseed – and the ratio determines the character of the paint, whether it is viscous and sculptural, or thin and translucent. Bartlett has used this to full effect, creating smooth gradients in the face and background, and building up the folds of the robe in thicker strokes. The mountain background recalls the landscapes of Frederic Church, a 19th century American painter known for dramatic, immersive scenes. The work involved in creating a painting like this is considerable: stretching the canvas, priming it, mixing the colors, and then the slow work of building up the image. But the result transcends all that labor. It is a testament to the enduring power of slow, deliberate craftsmanship. By giving material and process pride of place, we understand the artist's labor and vision, elevating our understanding of the art itself.