The public is cordially invited to attend two special evenings at the Great Falls Library on Thursdays, Nov. 7 and Nov. 14, from 7 to 8 p.m. Admission is free.
On Thursday, Nov. 7, John Francis McCabe will give a talk titled “The Art of Portraiture—a Historic Look at the Greatest Works of European Fine Art Portraiture.” From the late Renaissance to the genre’s great achievements in the 19th century, the talk will present and discuss examples of paintings from Da Vinci to Holbein to John Singer Sargent. A number of works will be presented, including Vermeer’s “Girl with the Red Hat” and Thomas Eakin’s “The Gross Clinic.” The talk will cover the most interesting aspects of their origin, history and impact, as well as little known cultural and psychological backgrounds of these selected iconic paintings.
On Thursday, Nov. 14, Judith St. Ledger-Roty will give a talk about “The Social, Religious and Artistic Role of Color” with an emphasis on the historical evolution of color in dyes and pigments from ancient times to the present day. She will discuss what natural materials make what colors. She will relate how and when the transformation of the Virgin Mary's clothing to blue took place, in both artistry and symbolism. She will also touch on the possible origin of today's "little black dress." According to St. Ledger-Roty, color has been the cause of wars; the cause of exploration; responsible for advances and defeats in botany; and used to determine religious as well as social hierarchies.
These talks are part of an exhibition in November at the Great Falls Library featuring works of Judith St. Ledger-Roty, Hwa Crawford and John Francis McCabe reflecting the techniques of classical realism painting. The show will display still life works, landscapes, portraiture and other works that represent the talent and imagination of these three artists, all of whom are Great Falls residents and members of Great Falls Studios.
A reception for the exhibition will be held on Saturday, Nov. 9, at the Great Falls Library from 5 to 8 p.m.; it will be open to the public, with complimentary refreshments served.