When I first saw Jane Oriel’s pet portraits, I knew I would feature them today, the first day of fall. There is something so autumnal about her palette and something so cozy about her dogs. Here, dogs are at home, posing in front of intricate wallpaper, lounging around in the den. Even her outside paintings incorporate manicured branches, probably from no farther than the front lawn.
They remind me of one of my other favorite domestic dog paintings, Stove by Alex Colville.
Stove by Alex Coleville, 1988
And, I can’t help but comparing her impressionistic, swirly style to another artist who embraced the beauty of short days and ochre tones, Vincent van Gogh.
Self-Portrait by Vincent van Gogh, 1887
Yes, it’s true, Van Gogh the master of vivid, glowing yellows and oranges, knew how to dazzle with darkness.
In fact, MOMA’s current exhibition Van Gogh and the Colors of the Night proves it right now. If you can’t get to New York, read the NYT’s Roberta Smith’s illuminating review. And take a moment to witness the Van Gogh’s colors of night yourself via their excellent slide show.
Oh, and if you want your own impressionistic masterpiece visit Jane Oriel’s website to commission one for yourself.