Outside/Inside

[Alexandra Tyng]

Christy, thank you! I really appreciate your comments. It's true that the portrait has a personal meaning but it was my hope that it would say something to people in general and not just be obtuse, or worse, meaningless. The things you see it in are things I wasn't thinking of consciously, but now that you mention them, I can see how they can fit. It's so interesting to hear about unintentional meanings because, in a way, this portrait is not just of my brother, but also of universal feelings and life experiences that I'm trying to express through my painting of him. I suppose all portraits are like that to varying degrees.

[Christy Talbott]

Alexandra, when I say personal I really mean for me, and that is why I felt a little self conscious talking about it. It's richly layered with meaning for me, without even knowing what it all means to you. I love that it could mean many different things. It's mystery is what makes it so intriguing.

[Michele Rushworth]

I love this painting, and was fortunate enough to see the original.

I especially appreciate that there's a story and a mystery to it all, that there's a narrative. It's not just your typical "here's Joe" kind of portrait. Kudos to you, Alex!

[Alexandra Tyng]

Christy, the fact that it has a personal meaning for you is, to me, an encouraging sign. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and feelings.

Michele, thank you so much! It has been incredible reading other people's reactions to the "story" aspect. Each person has his or her own associations which are both personal and universal. When I painted it I had no idea what to expect--I only knew what I wanted to say, and even that was only half-conscious. So this has been fascinating to read!

I enjoyed seeing your work in person, too, at the PBA seminar. There's something about seeing the brush marks that changes ones perception of a painting. The large portrait of the executive by the window with the clock in the background sticks in my mind particularly.