The Portrait of Juan de Pareja
Location: The Metropolitan Museum of Art
While I have visited New York City several times, I have never entered the Metropolitan Museum of Art. However, today one of my cousins insisted that we visit the museum and enjoy its various art pieces. My desire for new experiences and excessive art liking could not resist the request.
Various pieces in the Metropolitan Museum of Art give a feeling of the past America. One particular artwork that captured my attention was the Portrait of Juan de Pareja. Although this is not the first time I have heard about this specific artwork, I came across it in one of my favourite History classes in high school.
The portrait stood out to me among all the paintings we observed in the museum. Unlike other paintings done by European artists, it is one of the earliest artworks of a Spaniard of African descent. Another striking difference between the Portrait of Juan de Pareja and others on the premises is that it is categorised as “among the most important acquisitions in the Museum’s history”. I consider the painting an aesthetic reminder of Africans’ struggles during the enslaved and colonial periods. While other paintings of Africans portray them as individuals who faced discrimination, Portrait of Juan de Pareja presents their beauty.
While observing the painting, problems associated with racism and other ethnic discrimination assailed my mind. Given the perfect and meticulous presentation of the enslaved person through the painting, it is certain that Diego Velázquez had a different perception of individuals of African descent. Unlike other Europeans who exploited Africans through slavery, Diego Velázquez communicated their beauty and why they deserve to be treated with dignity. This was one of my favourite days to learn much about artwork and history.
Audrey Hepburn Mural
Location: Mulberry Street, New York
Women’s enlightenment and empowerment are among the most historically contested social issues. While walking along Mulberry Street in New York City, I stumbled upon a hidden gem of art. As I wandered down the vibrant street, I was drawn to a captivating mural of a beautiful woman. The mural adorned the side of a building, giving the entire street an aesthetic look.
The Audrey Hepburn artwork is one of the most fascinating murals that beautifies different streets in New York City. Although I was unsure, the work is the creativity of a seasoned artist, Tristan Eaton. The artwork was a colourful rendition of the famous British actress, Audrey Hepburn.
Although I am not a fan of Audrey Hepburn, this artwork manifested women’s empowerment and enlightenment in the contemporary world. Firstly, I felt that the mural represented the iconic status that women should be recognised with. Known for her iconic style, beauty, and endless charm, Audrey Hepburn is one of the few women who overtook the male-dominated film production industry.
From the mural, I could see the many women who have taken part in shaping me into the person I am today. For instance, I could not stop thinking of how one of my elder sisters made it to a top managerial position in a male-dominated company. The few women who have gone against all odds deserve great veneration.
Besides its deeper meaning, the mural’s paint combination captured my attention. The artwork was a symphony of colours with hues ranging from vibrant oranges and blues to delicate browns and greys. Tristan Eaton dexterously blended many colours and objects to create a harmonious and visually stunning mural. Audrey Hepburn’s face was made of bold brushstrokes and intricate details, making her seem tangible. Without a feeling to stop staring at the mural, I imagined what most buildings would look like if they were adorned with such artwork on the side.