On loan from a private collection; the artist, Catherine Abel was commissioned to produce a Tamara de Lempicka-inspired acrylic that represents a classic art deco style from travel in the 1930s. Resplendent of sophisticated elegance in sumptuous attire, the central figure exudes a relaxed confidence with an ambiguous posture that might be beckoning or dismissive of an unseen subject.
The curved window frames a vertical city of skyscrapers that could be her point of departure or place of arrival. A journey to begin or a story about to unfold. The geometric deco design was in part captured by the artist using the classic curves of the rare Kem Weber, Burlington Zephyr clock (seen on the plinth above) that was possibly in her possession at the time of travel.
Other than the period time-piece, the title of the painting causes us to ponder what other secrets and delights might be in the suitcase.
Catherine Abel: About the Artist
Australian artist, Catherine Abel is renowned internationally for her striking figurative oil paintings. Combining the sleek, stylised geometry of the Art Deco period with the clarity, richness of colour, and depth of light of the Italian Renaissance Masters, her works are powerfully seductive compositions of beauty, elegance, strength and grace.
Self-taught, Abel began painting professionally after moving to Paris in 2000. Influenced greatly by European art and history, she immersed herself in her painting, rapidly building her reputation as a fine art painter. She has exhibited in Australia, France and the USA and is a sought-after portraitist.
On returning to Australia, Abel has continued to exhibit and sell both locally and internationally. She has been a finalist in the Archibald, Sulman and Portia Geach Portrait Prizes and her works are featured in private collections worldwide.
These days you’ll find Catherine in her light filled studio in the cool climate of the Central Highlands of Victoria. The village of Trentham, nestled on the edge of the Wombat Forest is a haven for artists, with four distinct seasons, an endless sky, and a passionate café culture. This inspirational part of the world combines the romance of old with a contemporary energy, much like Abel’s work itself.
Visit Catherine's website at: https://www.catherineabelstore.com/
