|
In this Interdisciplinary Stillife Painting,
"Part Pauper and Part King," an original oil on panel,
I was trying to make a play on the paradox of being a starving
artist. I took the point of view that I put myself in the position
as if I were being asked, albeit a little sarcastically, "I
know you think you are quite knowledgeable and experienced, but
can you get it right and tell us who the person in the picture
really is?"
I drew my inspiration from having twenty-seven cents in my pocket
when I got home to my studio after being runner up in the Texas Sesquicentennial Artist of the Year
Contest---1986. I felt like a real artist. I wrote a poem,
which I managed to set to music. I decided to try to make a painting
of it. I didn't have time for therapy.
Pauper and King
- Well, I know you've painted faces
for the King
And recorded life and death right at the scene.
But can you paint my portrait as I really am:
Part Pauper and Part King
-
- And if it's true your art imitates
life itself,
Would you make me appear the country nobleman,
Or will I end up looking like a poor old rich man.
But if you paint me at all, please paint me as I really am:
Part Pauper and Part King
-
- I hope the critics won't give me
that you're-a-peon look,
Or claim me as a lost chapter from their ancient book.
When it comes to the colors that you must surely choose,
I hope you'll treat me lightly on them cursed blues.
-
- So now tell me, can you paint my
portrait as I really am:
Part Pauper and Part King
-
- by Paul McMillan
|
