Art of the Day
Paula Rego
The Dance, 1988
Acrylic on paper laid on canvas
2126 mm x 2740 mm
The Tate Collections
(click on image for larger view)
Better known for her somewhat disturbing renditions of fairy tales and Disney characters, Rego’s work displays a strong psychological theme and plays off relationships between men, women and children.
This particular painting I find intriguing because it seems like a purgatory prom. The dancers appear to be either a bit on edge or slowly lulling into a trance. There is, of course, a woman dancing by herself, though this lady doesn’t don a lampshade and hasn’t started stripping or bumping and grinding yet. Perhaps in purgatory that seems a bit silly. 
D’ja notice how the clothes aren’t hanging quite right, like they’re dancing in 1/2 gravity or something?
The colors I associate with fever dreams and bad drunks.
There’s no escaping the sheer class of your weblog. This painting is great! I can relate to most of the art you share with us and I for one am glad you do! Keep them coming, swirling!
Weird colors. I like it, though. I don’t know why, but I do!
And I’m loving the woman who is dancing all by herself. GO, GIRL!
The Duchess