Oblayo 2020

Editor: This is "Oblayo," an acrylic painting from 2020 by Cornelius Annor. The woman, the bold print of her dress, and the radio all have this fascinating retro feel to them, and there is this strange combination of flatness and depth, which creates a very particular mood. What strikes you about the piece? Curator: Formally, I find the interplay of patterns compelling. The wallpaper's subtle geometric design offers a quiet contrast to the woman's vibrant, boldly patterned dress. Notice also the geometry present in the rectangular volume of the radio. This superimposition of textures and planes flattens the pictorial space while paradoxically suggesting depth. Editor: I hadn't considered how the flat wallpaper contributes to the feeling of flatness along with the color blocks! And you noticed the geometry in the radio! Curator: Indeed. Furthermore, the restricted color palette enhances the painting's cohesive structure, doesn't it? Observe how the lavender backdrop accentuates the ochre in her attire, producing visual consonance across the pictorial field. Editor: Absolutely, now I can see the link created by that specific palette. Curator: What do you make of the woman’s expression and gesture? Editor: Her expression seems pleasant, like she enjoys listening to music; there is an arc, you know, an attention flowing from her fingertips at the radio. Curator: A compelling reading. The dynamic curve established between her reaching hand and the radio serves as an indicator of connection within the visual structure. Overall, I find Annor's manipulation of form and color provides a unique lens through which we are invited to consider not just a portrait, but how the composition itself builds affect. Editor: I hadn't looked at the forms and relations so analytically, I’m going to need more practice, but thanks for pointing it all out!