Why I love this piece: Portrait of George Udel by Raoul Middleman. It is both a stunning portrait [and] also a provocative interpretation. It’s not just a portrait, depicting the person in a flattering light or something simple like that. It uses color and movement to get at the essence, energy and soul of George Udel who was an instrumental figure in the Baltimore film scene. Udel organized movie-related events and brought films to town.
That’s what I look for in figurative art, rather than straight depiction. It also has a real spontaneous look to it. You look at it and can feel the energy of the painting session. And I love that, and am drawn to that very thing.
In art today, a lot of people sort of look at figurative art as being over or old fashion. Middleman shows you the endless possibilities of painting the human form and bringing his own unique energy and perspective to it.
BEYOND THE EYE
Man’s best friend is Jawetz’s best subject
In boldly colored oil paints, Gil Jawetz portrays special moments with canine companions. Collections of his recent works, shown under the title “Human(e) Beings,” are on display at 501 W. Cold Spring Lane in the Evergreen Cafe and 700 South Potomac St. in the Yellow Dog Tavern.
To give back to his four-legged subjects, Jawetz donates 5 percent of the show’s sales to the Baltimore animal rescue group Recycled Love. Jawetz also recently published a book of his paintings. For more information, visit the Buskerdog Web site.
