What's your favorite place at home? Where do you go to find peace? Where do you go to have fun?
This is a painting by Jordan Casteel at the New Museum. It's sad because she has worked very hard on beautiful exhibit but the museum is closed. You can go on a virtual tour here https://gesso.fm/newmu/items/jordan-casteel-virtual-tour/video . Please be aware that there are few paintings that show people's bodies but nothing inappropriate is visible. I always recommend watching museum tours with an adult so you can discuss them together.
Jordan was born in Colorado, but now works and resides in Harlem, New York. She enjoys painting people she sees on the sidewalks in everyday life. She takes photos and then paints them at home in her studio.
Jordan Casteel. “Miles and Jojo.” 2015. Oil on canvas, 54 x 72". Courtesy of the artist.
I think it's especially interesting to look at the people she paints in their own homes, especially at a time when so many people are stuck at home now. It can be difficult to get along with everyone who lives with you. You have to share everything and don't have anywhere else to go except outside. Look at the portrait of "Miles and Jojo". What do you think they are doing to pass the time during quarantine? Do they remind you of anyone you know?
Angie and Kianna, Image courtesy of Jordan Casteel
Jordan had to get permission from families to visit their homes. It was important to Jordan to photograph people in the comfort of their own homes to learn more about where they come from. You can learn a lot about a person by visiting their home. In the photo above can you see some things in the room that might tell you about the young woman? Take a look at what's taped to the wall. Is there a place in your home that would give a visitor any hints about what you like to do?
Jordan is also a painting teacher at Rutgers University. Sometimes she paints her students. What do you think these two are doing during quarantine? How do you think they feel?
Activity
1. Use a phone to take a picture of someone who lives with you. Make sure to have them sit or stand in a place at home that is important to them or where they spend a lot of time.
2. Study the photograph and make a sketch. Don't worry if it doesn't look exactly like the subject. Have fun and try to think of cheering that person up with your project.
3. Alternatively, you can draw a sketch while that person is busy. A good time to draw someone is if they are sitting still (watching tv, playing a video game etc.)
4. Think about the important details of this person- what shoes do they like to wear? How do they style their hair? What t-shirt do they like?
5. Consider their activity and where they are sitting. Do they like to cook? Do they have a favorite video game? These are fun things to write down and think about once quarantine is over.
Bonus Activity
Draw a self portrait of yourself in your favorite place in your home. Have someone else take a photo of you or use a mirror. Even drawing in the bathroom is a good idea if you need a quiet place to work!
I miss you and hope you and your families are well!