Passiflora 2021

Mary Jane Ansell painted this portrait, "Passiflora", in oil on canvas. Her work can be described as a contemporary take on the Old Masters, and the use of a circular frame here gives a sense of history. Ansell's distinctive style makes use of a limited palette, dramatic chiaroscuro, and a highly polished surface; all of which can be seen in this piece. Here, the artist presents us with a woman in profile, her pose and classical features reminiscent of Renaissance portraiture. The bright red hair and lips are the focal point, contrasting with the dark background and muted floral arrangement. We might consider the way that Ansell’s art exists in relation to today’s image-saturated world. Her use of a traditional style and medium allows her to explore themes of beauty, identity, and mortality in a fresh light. To fully understand Ansell's artistic choices, it's essential to consider the social and institutional context in which she works.