The artwork titled “The Artist’s Mother” was created by Arshile Gorky around the year 1936. This piece employs charcoal on paper as its medium and exemplifies the Post-Impressionism art movement. The portrait measures 63 x 48.5 cm and is currently housed in the Art Institute of Chicago, located in Chicago, Illinois, United States.
In the artwork, a solemn expression characterizes the subject, whose direct gaze engages the viewer. The composition is rendered in a monochromatic palette, emphasizing the emotional depth and introspective nature of the portrait. The use of charcoal allows for subtle gradations of tone, contributing to the texture and form of the subject’s face and clothing. The artist’s skillful application of light and shadow provides a three-dimensional quality to the portrayed figure, adding to the piece’s overall poignancy and intimacy. The simplicity and directness of the work convey a profound sense of humanity and personal connection.