Comments on: Louise Abbéma – “Portrait of a Young Girl with a Blue Ribbon” – A Close Look

By: Gail Sibley

Gail Sibley — Sun, 12 Dec 2021 17:47:45 +0000

In reply to Dragana. Dragana, thank you so much for your appreciative comment! I love doing these close-looks and so when I get positive reinforcement (like yours!), I'm motivated to do more

By: Dragana

Dragana — Tue, 07 Dec 2021 13:19:40 +0000

What a thorough and insightful analysis! Thank you for teaching about this great artist that I haven’t heard of before. Your article is like a lesson in every sense.
Cheers
Dragana

By: Gail Sibley

Gail Sibley — Tue, 23 Nov 2021 05:20:56 +0000

In reply to Elizabeth Spona. Thanks so much Liz for your comment of appreciation and for your encouragement to do more like this. Perhaps we can bring this in-depth analysis to IGNITE!? It is curious about this artist using canvas. I did write the Museum and have some info back which I will add as an addendum to the blog post.

By: Elizabeth Spona

Elizabeth Spona — Mon, 15 Nov 2021 17:08:13 +0000

This is a wonderful in depth breakdown of looking at art. Love it.
I’m astounded that this was done on canvas – it must have been of a very fine weave, unlike canvases that we buy prestretched and gessoed from the shops today.
Your in depth analysis of the work is excellent- I’d like more of this as I need to learn how to look at/analyze paintings. I have zero art criticism training.
And, no, I’ve not heard of this artist before, but that’s no surprise as I’ve had zero art history training either.
More please!

By: Gail Sibley

Gail Sibley — Mon, 15 Nov 2021 01:00:43 +0000

In reply to Maureen Gerrity. Thank you for your keen observations Maureen! I wonder about all three too. The confidence and looseness of stroke in the garment both seem to point to Sargent's influence. And certainly those bangs and a bit of the attitude relate to the artist herself Your comment has prompted me to follow up on my 1st November email to the museum. I do hope we will find out more about her use of canvas as a support.

By: Maureen Gerrity

Maureen Gerrity — Sun, 14 Nov 2021 12:41:38 +0000

Love this Gail! Thanks for breaking it down for us! I too am very interested in learning how to paint on canvas. I have tried it before but I’m puzzled as to how to preserve it! I had a few observations. First it’s interesting that she studied under someone who taught John Singer Sargent. I can sort of see a similarity in style. Second I love the looseness in the garment compared to the more refined treatment of face. And third looking at photos of the artist I wonder if this is a painting of her as a child? She sure has the same set of bangs and eyes! And attitude Thanks again very interesting! Maureen Gerrity

By: Gail Sibley

Gail Sibley — Sat, 13 Nov 2021 22:12:30 +0000

In reply to Anita L. BEaty. That's so grand to hear Anita! Thanks for sharing the things that were specifically reinforced for you. I love the analogy of play-by-play And thank you for your lovely compliment

By: Anita L. BEaty

Anita L. BEaty — Sat, 13 Nov 2021 22:06:27 +0000

Love the “play by play” you gave us. Very helpful in re-enforcing habits to look carefully at value changes, edges, getting volume without shadow (that was the best thing to me). You are a treasure, Gail.

Anita Beaty

By: Gail Sibley

Gail Sibley — Sat, 13 Nov 2021 18:07:04 +0000

In reply to Angie Michal. That's so great to hear Angie! What I wouldn't give to be able to take a class around a gallery for close examination of particular pieces. Of course, online, we can really get a close look!!

By: Gail Sibley

Gail Sibley — Sat, 13 Nov 2021 18:03:29 +0000

In reply to Nancy. Yes, I did that but couldn't find a very young Maggie. Thought you might have secret knowledge you could share