Dress Rehearsal 

Melissa Hefferlin’s painting captures a woman in a red dress, perhaps preparing for a performance. The rose in her hair and the swirling dress evoke the passionate dance of flamenco, a Spanish art form rich with symbolism. The color red itself is a powerful motif. From ancient rituals to Renaissance paintings, red signifies life, vitality, and intense emotion. Think of Titian's use of red in his depictions of Venus, goddess of love, or the cardinal's robes, symbols of power and sacrifice. Here, red embodies the fiery spirit of flamenco, a dance born from struggle and resilience. The dancer’s poised yet emotive gesture connects us to generations of artists who have used color to tap into the collective unconscious, reminding us that art is not just seen but felt on a primal level. This vibrant hue pulsates through history, transforming yet retaining its primal force.