“Structure” and “meaning” are two words that could define any of Elizabeth Floyd’s still life paintings. A former architect, Elizabeth’s delicate use of layers of color and specifically chosen subject matter combine to form meaningful compositions which draw viewers deeper into the story of each piece.
Elizabeth also has the technical ability to impart the feeling of objects through paint. One glance at Pitcher and Pomegranates below and I vividly identify with the cool-to-the-touch glossiness of the pitcher, and the wax-like texture of the pomegranates.
Her addition of another element—the subtle, yet sun-filled windows reflected in the curve of the pitcher—gives this painting a breezy, outdoorsy quality and makes the countryside come to life in even these simple objects. Her choice of calming, earthy colors also contributes to the relaxed country atmosphere.
In Lemon and Silver Cup (seen below) the visual textures are again so realistically conveyed that I almost believe I could reach into the painting and extract these very items for my personal use.
Every rough edge and scuffed gleam of this silver cup show its age and wear, yet the lemon is just as detailed, with a thick dimpled skin that catches the light and hides its sour fruit inside.
My own thoughts begin to revolve around where these objects came from. A silver cup taken from the antique curio? The lemon from lemon trees growing just outside the back door? Whatever the case, I can almost taste the fresh-squeezed lemonade that surely will be the product this perfect pairing.
Lastly, in Persimmon, a single orange fruit of the same name sits alone, slightly tilted to the left. It is wonderfully balanced, however by the branch and leaves extending off to the right.
For what the persimmon lacks in company it makes up for in its interesting composition, its bright color, and the slightly rough, persistent texture of its peel.
Its scraggly stem, tree branch and slightly wilted leaves also indicate that although it may indeed be alone in this world (at least for the time being) it won’t be going down without a fight!
If you have a moment today, head over to Elizabeth’s blog and check out her new still-life painting series entitled Bountiful Observations. Not only does this series showcase flowers and plants celebrating the beauty of each season, but 25 percent of the net proceeds from this series will be donated to the American Horticultural Society.
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