SHIVAREE

A SHIVAREE is the Asian and mid- Western equivalen of a Charivari. Literally speaking, a charivari is the noisy banging of pots and pans as a mock serenade to a newly married couple, or similar occasion and, (by extension) any loud, cacophonous noise or hubbub, which is precisely the ambience I strive for in this painting.

Formally, the painting is many-layered and visually ambiguous. PIctorial elliptical elements appear and disappear across the surface partially disguised by a veil of broken stripes. This makes it challenging to read the visual history of the picture and adds to the pentimento effect created. The frenetic composition is enhanced with a carefully controlled contrasting and dissonant colour palette to create an energetic and exciting visual engagement.