Winged Victory 1971

Frank Mason painted this scene of his studio, called "Winged Victory," with oil on canvas, at an undetermined date. The way he's layered these deep, earthy tones creates a sense of history and warmth, and it’s as if the painting is built from memories and impressions. Look at the surface, it's alive with texture. The paint application varies from thin washes that let the light bounce through, to thicker, more deliberate strokes that define the objects in the room. The contrast is especially noticeable around the statue, which is loosely articulated with sweeping brushstrokes that really catch the eye. The statue glows against the dark background, like it's radiating light. This piece reminds me a little of the domestic interiors of Fairfield Porter. Like Porter, Mason wasn't interested in capturing a precise likeness, but more in conveying a mood, an atmosphere. Both artists invite us to see painting not just as representation, but as a deeply personal, subjective experience.