The artwork entitled “The Pillow,” created by John Currin in 2006, is an oil painting on canvas that epitomizes the genre of portraiture within the Contemporary Realism art movement. Measuring 66 x 50.8 cm, this piece is part of a private collection.
In the artwork, the viewer is presented with an intimate portrait of a woman in repose. Her auburn hair cascades over a vibrant blue pillow, creating a striking contrast. The woman’s expression is one of contemplative serenity, accentuated by the soft, detailed treatment of her facial features. She is depicted in a close-up composition, lying down with an open book resting beside her, suggesting a moment of relaxation and introspection. The artist’s masterful use of light and shadow enhances the three-dimensionality of the subject, highlighting the delicate skin tones and the texture of the pillow and book. The overall mood of the painting is one of quietude and reflection, capturing a personal, almost private moment.
