Lady and Baby, Oil on Sanded Panel By Alfredo DeCurtis (1938- ）2017

Artist Background

Alfredo DeCurtis, a Canadian-Italian artist born in 1938, brings a rich cultural heritage and profound artistic insight into his works. Having immigrated to Canada in the 1970s, DeCurtis has spent decades refining his unique style, characterized by emotional depth and technical finesse. This particular piece, created in 2017, measures 12x12 inches and is executed in oil on sand panel.

Visual and Technical Analysis

The painting features a serene and tender moment between a woman and a child. The figures are rendered with soft, ethereal brushstrokes that imbue the scene with a dreamlike quality. The use of oil on sand panel adds a unique texture to the piece, enhancing the tactile and visual experience.

The composition is intimate, drawing the viewer's eye to the emotional connection between the two subjects. The woman, dressed in warm orange hues, appears nurturing and protective, her body forming a gentle curve that encloses the child. The child, in contrasting red, clings to the woman, suggesting a sense of comfort and security.

The background is a blend of cool blues and grays, which contrasts with the warm tones of the figures. This contrast not only highlights the subjects but also creates a sense of depth and space. The subtle interplay of light and shadow further enhances the three-dimensionality of the figures, making them appear almost sculptural.

Emotional and Symbolic Interpretation

DeCurtis' use of color and form communicates a powerful narrative of love, care, and protection. The orange of the woman's attire symbolizes warmth, energy, and nurturing qualities, while the red of the child's dress conveys passion, love, and vulnerability. Together, these colors evoke a deep emotional resonance, capturing the essence of maternal love and the bond between mother and child.

The overall atmosphere of the painting is one of calm and introspection. The figures' gentle expressions and the softness of the brushwork suggest a moment frozen in time, a quiet pause in the midst of life's chaos. This piece invites the viewer to reflect on the themes of family, security, and the tender moments that define human relationships.

Title and Personal Significance

Originally titled "Lady in a Room" by Alfredo, this painting was renamed "Lady and Baby" by his wife, Angela, who was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease three years ago. Despite her condition, Angela has always been a devoted admirer of Alfredo's art. Upon seeing the painting displayed in Gallery M2, she immediately identified it as "Lady and Baby," a title that poignantly captures the essence of the scene. Angela's recognition and renaming of the painting adds a layer of personal and emotional significance, highlighting the enduring bond between Alfredo and Angela, as well as her deep connection to his art.

Influences and Comparisons

Alfredo DeCurtis’ innovative use of oil on sand panel can be seen as part of a broader tradition of artists experimenting with unconventional materials and textures. Pablo Picasso and Georges Braque, pioneers of Cubism, were known for their use of mixed media and collage techniques, incorporating materials like newspaper clippings and fabric to add texture and depth to their works​ (Greatsenioryears - Greatsenioryears)​​ (Encyclopedia Britannica)​. This spirit of experimentation and pushing the boundaries of traditional art techniques is evident in DeCurtis' work, showcasing his ability to blend emotional depth with technical innovation.

Conclusion

Alfredo DeCurtis' painting, "Lady and Baby," is a beautiful testament to his skill and emotional depth as an artist. The combination of his Canadian and Italian influences is evident in the harmonious blend of colors, the meticulous attention to detail, and the profound emotional impact of the work. Enhanced by the personal story of Angela's touching renaming, this piece is not only a visual delight but also a poignant reminder of the simple, yet profound, moments that define our lives and relationships. DeCurtis’ innovative use of oil on sand panel places him in the company of great artists like Picasso and Braque, who similarly challenged and expanded the possibilities of artistic expression.