Barnes Takeout: Art Talk on Milton Avery’s The Nursemaid

[@suzannetevlin8439]

Milton Avery is such a wonderful artist. This particular work is delightful. I would point out that, rather than describing it as a composition with 3 women, one could say, either, 2 women and a little girl, or 3 females. As to its not fitting in. Surely any painter as powerful as Avery would fit into any well curated collection.

[@carlrouth7842]

It's so interesting to know the back story and history about this painting, and especially the link to Mark Rothko. Enlightening, the friendship, between Milton and Mark and the application of paint. We are fortunate in Houston to have the Rothko Chapel and many other of Mark Rothko's works collected by Dominique and John de Menil. Would it be serendipitous to say,that for some reason I was thinking about Mark Rothko earlier today, about an experience I had observing one of his paintings. There is smoothing worth exploring in those "soft and almost stumble like quality" of paint. Didn't expect to enjoy this talk so much. Bravo Kaelin! Thank You

[@garybonas5366]

Kaelin, thank you. Yes, I too have wondered how this piece fits into the overall Barnes collection. Your explanation helps and your connecting Mr. Avery with Mr. Rothko is also helpful.

[@robertmather6152]

Thank you for this very informative presentation.

[@captainwgg]

I would be lost without these fascinating discussions of how the works are related to those of other artists. I almost start to see an ecology at work here, with one work influencing another, sharing between them excellent concepts and techniques. I will not feel quite so overwhelmed the next time we visit the Barnes, hopefully soon!

[@shelleyrose4334]

As a Jew, your explanations of Christian spirituality are enlightening and your enthusiasm for the task inspiring.

[@janetfalon713]

Boy, I miss the daily Takeout! I can't wait until Friday rolls around. Kaelin, that was fascinating -- but why is the child so out of proportion to the two women?

[@kaelinjewell4962]

Well, we can't know for sure! However, it could be a result of Avery's interest in simplifying forms down to their essence (adults being larger than children). I suspect he might have enjoyed the juxtaposition of sizes. It's such a wonderful painting and one that allows for so many different interpretations :)

[@alternative7361]

@@kaelinjewell4962 It could be the Lingo of the time called children "dolls" i.e. "What a doll!" This term was also used for women and men as a form of endearment. I feel Avery took the liberty of having some fun and made use of his sense of humor.