Emma 

Cathrine Edlinger-Kunze painted ‘Emma’ using oil on canvas, a traditional medium that has dominated fine art for centuries. The visible brushstrokes give the painting a tangible, textured quality. You can almost feel the artist’s hand at work, layering the paint to capture Emma’s likeness. The artist’s chosen materials have inherent qualities: the slow drying time of oil paint allows for blending and reworking, while the canvas provides a stable and receptive surface. While oil paint and canvas are often associated with ‘high art,’ it’s important to remember that their production involves labor, industry, and trade, and its value depends on the artist’s skill and vision. The cultural significance of oil painting lies in its long history and association with artistic skill, while the material properties of the oil contribute to the aesthetic. Understanding the interplay between materials, making, and context enriches our appreciation, and challenges the perceived divide between fine art and craft.