The artwork titled “Ema” created by Gerhard Richter in 1992 is a figurative piece encapsulated within the New European Painting movement. With dimensions of 153.5 x 227.5 cm, this significant work is housed in the Art Gallery of New South Wales (AGNSW) in Sydney, Australia.
The artwork portrays a blurred, yet detailed image of a woman descending a staircase. The ethereal quality of the painting, achieved through Richter’s characteristic application of soft-focus, compels viewers to reflect on the themes of reality and perception. The figure is central, yet not fully defined, evoking both a physical and metaphysical presence that invites contemplation. The overall composition, with its gentle yet deliberate blurring and muted palette, renders a dreamy and introspective atmosphere, underscoring the nuanced interplay between clarity and ambiguity inherent in this remarkable piece.