Kathryn Oliver "Music Above" (acrylic painting)

24" x 26" Acrylic painting

Estimated Value: $1,400. Reserve: $900.

I draw inspiration from the ancient Byzantine iconographic tradition of the east. In this tradition of painting, everything is in a relationship with everything else through dynamic rhythm and color. The elements In the painting are not rendered naturalistically but are depicted symbolically. A framework in which to unify the sorrows of the world through love.

The expression of the woman carries a “sorrowful-joy.” Sorrow because of the suffering of the world but joy in the mystery of participation and transformation through love.

The blooming flowers, the heart, the dove and her gaze lifted towards infinity are symbols of renewal and transformation.

Byzantine painting seeks to bridge the worlds of separateness in existence and point to where isolation can become love.

For everyone who has suffered at the hands of another I offer this hope.

www.kathrynoliver.com