Jesus Loves Me 1983

Editor: This is Varnette Honeywood’s "Jesus Loves Me," created in 1983 using acrylic paint. It has this incredibly vibrant and busy feeling; almost like a quilt with all of these figures pieced together. What strikes you when you look at this piece? Curator: Immediately, the pronounced two-dimensionality and vibrant colour palette command attention. Notice how Honeywood flattens the picture plane, eschewing traditional perspective for stacked figures and blocks of colour. How does this flattening contribute to the overall composition in your opinion? Editor: It kind of removes any real depth, making everything feel equally important and present. It creates a sense of inclusivity almost? Curator: Precisely. Semiotically, the use of flat planes underscores the accessibility and shared experience of faith. The figures, though individuated by clothing and expression, exist within the same visual plane. This suggests a community brought together by a unifying belief, a kind of leveling. Consider the structural relationship between the foreground figures and those in the choir loft. Editor: I see. The vibrant colours repeat in both the foreground and the background, connecting everyone despite the spatial difference. What about the stylized figures? How does that affect meaning? Curator: The simplification of form, what some might term "naive," removes specific details and allows viewers to focus on gesture and essence. The elongated necks and almond-shaped eyes are reminiscent of African sculpture and drawing. Can you elaborate on how Honeywood evokes symbolic gestures with posture and attitude? Editor: Definitely! It's apparent in the uplifted hands that express praise, to the slight bowing of heads for reverence. It adds a beautiful sense of rhythm throughout the composition! Curator: A rhythm enacted, importantly, with the bold juxtaposition of shapes and colors. So, from a purely formalist perspective, this work succeeds through a calculated arrangement of visual elements to invoke profound emotional and spiritual resonance. Editor: I see. The analysis has shed light on elements that I missed on first viewing. The interconnectedness of the entire design reveals more meaning than initially apparent. Curator: Indeed. Continued study of "Jesus Loves Me" will only reveal more layers to you.