I'm reminded of a 20th Century artist whose subjects often touched
on the everyday tableaux of the American scene. But whose whimsical touch always enlivened the proceedings.
Welcome to the Autumnal Equinox edition of Not Your Usual Caricature Artist.
Jack Levine (1915 – 2010) was a New York-based
"Social Realist" painter known for his satirical interpretations of
modern life and political machination. His work can be viewed in some of the Nation's premier museums and galleries.
According to Wikipedia, Levine "focused his sardonic
eye and acerbic wit on everyone from gangsters, politicians and cops to the
dealers, critics, collectors and auction houses of the contemporary art world.
His lifelong love of the Old Masters and dedication to exacting technique led
to the development of a multifaceted painting style in which distortions are
used for emphasis and highlights are refined to a jewel-like brilliance."
It's the "distortions" that have drawn me to his
works. Because, although he is very
painterly and "fine art" in his application, Levine's unique style
informed his work much like that of a caricature artist.
To wit:
Here's some "corporate" work of my own, commissioned
as gifts to honor these business people.
Hope to see you again the first Tuesday of next month for another whimsical whack at the work of Not Your Usual Caricature Artist.
Joel Kweskin
