Hound II 2021

In James Jean's "Hound II," you're seeing an image emerge as if from a dream or fairytale. The colors have such clarity, a kind of hyper-realism that almost feels artificial. I can imagine Jean mixing his paints, trying to match the exact hue of those peaches, that vibrant floral dress. Does he labor over each detail, holding his breath to get it just right? Or does he let the paint flow, trusting his intuition to guide the brush? Maybe he lets some of the paint drip to see what happy accidents come about. It is a beautiful thing when artists give in to what the painting might become. I wonder if there is a conversation between Jean and other artists throughout art history happening here? Each responding to what came before and then moving it along... I hope so.