The Mirror 1966

Fairfield Porter made “The Mirror” with oil on canvas, and what I find fascinating is how he captures a moment of reflection, both literally and figuratively. The painting has this wonderful soft focus and a gentle color palette; it’s like the world seen through a hazy memory. The materiality of the painting really draws me in. The paint application is smooth, almost creamy, without heavy impasto. But look closely at the surface – you can still see the traces of his brushstrokes, especially in the way he models the form of the little girl and her cardigan. Then there's the mirror itself, which has a matte finish, and seems to reflect without any shine. The tension between representation and abstraction is what makes this painting so compelling. It reminds me a bit of Edward Hopper, but with a more intimate and personal touch. Art, for me, is about opening up conversations rather than providing answers, and Porter's "The Mirror" does exactly that.