In this episode of Art in Isolation, Philip invites you back into his home to explore an intimate watercolour by the accomplished Gwen John. John carved her own distinctive style; often governed by an overriding stillness, subtlety of palette and a rich quality of light.
Gwen John's reputation as an artist has grown since her death. During her early career, Gwen was arguably overshadowed by her older brother, the male artist Augustus John. Her work is now held in collections globally, including the Tate (London), Musée Rodin (Paris) and the Metropolitan Museum of Art (New York). She is now well known for her intimate portraits. The subject here, Marie Hamonet, sat for Gwen John during the artist's time in Pléneuf, a small village on the north coast of Brittany from 1918-19. Homonet's strength of character is profoundly felt in the economy of line of her furrowed brow and pursed lips, whilst her folded arms similarly suggest a brazen and youthful spirit.
