HEADS

Jo Russ:

We have both created a number of works focusing on the head. Matt has made a large series of pencil drawings depicting well-known people (such as underground ‘comix artist’ Robert Crumb) and I have made close-up photographic self-portraits.

Of course, the face, being the most expressive part of the body, conveys many emotions. Our readings on some of these works range from the ethereal and melancholic, such as Janet Bayly’s shimmering purple-blue self-portrait, to the intense and engaging stare of Gary Freemantle’s untitled female portrait.

Apparently, many people find portraits, particularly realistic ones, uncomfortable to live with. However, we enjoy having our home populated with these images, although I have found Craig Collier’s painting of the sphinx head a little disturbing.