After examining two pieces of art within Guy Stanley Philoche’s latest exhibition entitled Give Us Our Flowers, it is important to note the juxtaposition between the depiction of flowers and the central figure(s). When observing these images, the viewer will notice the form and color of the flowers and the intricate expressions of the figures who are accented with colors of black and white. The dichotomy creates its shape by asserting flowers with a slight variation in its symmetry, enclosing the figures within the center of the canvas and drawing the attention of the observer. These parts function as creative expressions within the genre of mixed media. They have a metaphysical relationship that underscores the title of the exhibition. The artwork places the emphasis on the expressions of the people who deserve “getting their flowers” in life.
Description
In Daddy’s Little Girl, Philoche captures the young figure at a specific point in space and time. Her expression is a look of determination. She is wearing a backpack and is most likely either going to or from school. She clutches a teddy bear in her left hand for support. Her right foot is raised as if she’s traveling forward and the wrinkling of her jacket sleeves suggest she may be walking in the direction of wind-all of which creating a snapshot of her thoughts and emotions.
Analysis
Daddy’s Little Girl is a mixed media piece with a variety of shapes and colors. It functions as an opportunity to learn from people’s expressions as they gain experiences during integral parts of their lives. The artist shines a spotlight on the figure and gives observers the opportunity to acquire wisdom on their artistic path of enlightenment.
Interpretation
The figure’s expression within Daddy’s Little Girl should be examined and appreciated by contemporary observers. Her expression can be categorized as underrepresented and, in many cases, misrepresented or even entirely ignored. By enclosing her with physical flowers, observers essentially give her psychological “flowers” by understanding what she experiences in this point.
Judgement
The inspiration for the piece and others within the exhibition is the artist’s creative process of making new art after the difficult and unfortunate loss of his best friend last November. After the funeral Philoche discovered that his friend was well-loved by family but there were some people who were unable to express these feelings when he was alive. Out of this tragedy, the artist found the inspirination to create the art works in the new exhibition.
“After the funeral I couldn’t stop painting my friend’s portrait and started thinking about others that had never received their praise” said Philoche. “The people in my works are painted in black and white, allowing for the viewer to focus on the subject matter at hand. I wanted to make sure to call out specific people like Lena Waithe, but also different archetypes like the mother who is working every day for a better tomorrow for her two sons.”
42, a Snapshot of Jackie Robinson
Mixed media on canvas. 48 x 48 in.
About Guy Stanley Philoche
Give Us Our Flowers
Philoche’s latest series, Give Us Our Flowers, show appreciation for black historical figures and everyday cultural figureheads. The art work is on display in a group show at Cavalier’s new gallery at 530 West 24th Street in New York now through February 25th.
The art work captures figures like James Baldwin, Jackie Robinson and Lena Waithe. Each piece depicts daisies as they are Philoche’s mother’s favorite flower.
The show also features works by William Nelson, Adam Umbach, Jim Rennert, George Rickey, Mark S. Kornbluth and Terry O’Neill.
You can visit the exhibition at Cavalier Gallery (New York), Tuesday-Saturday, 10AM-6PM and by appointment. If you would like to view it outside of open hours, you can schedule an appointment at 212-570-4696 or email: art@cavaliergalleries.com