Monday 2 May 2011

The Strawberry Girl (1773) by Sir Joshua Reynolds, PRA

I remember it as if it were yesterday, a memorable visit to five art galleries in one day - it was a coach trip organsed by my dad`s local art club.
Yes, I saw some real masterpieces that day however there is one particular painting that for me was really special.  The texture of the paint, the very innocent shy fragile looking face, the pale colours, and for me an enigmatic atmostphere that is magical and enchanting - This painting will forever be my favourite portrait of all time.  Reynolds himself described the painting as "one of the half-dozen things which no man ever exceeded in his life"
I have revisited The Wallace Collection many times and even had the pleasure of working there for a while.  I can thoroughly recommend a visit even if you do not share my enthusiasm for this painting!