The Duet

[Alexandra Tyng]

Oil, 30" x 24"

This is the first time I've posted in the figurative section. I don't do many figurative paintings. I see a lot of work in which symbolism is dominant, often with a mythological, religious or historical reference, and perhaps because I don't have an urge to create work like this, I feel somewhat out of the mainstream of figurative art, at least out of the current trends. I guess my approach is more purely descriptive. I'm curious to hear what people think.

The wall in the hallway to the right is actually deep red. It was very hard to get an accurate photo of this.

[Ngaire Winwood]

Absolutely another stunning piece Alexandra. I feel the warmth of the room and the passion of the musicians, I can nearly even hear them playing too! Well Done.

[Lacey Lewis]

Alex- as someone who loves symbolism and references, I don't think your work is out of step with the times. The work looks contemporary to me, and I enjoy the subtle juxtaposition of the traditional (the instruments and decor) with the new (clothing and the subjects themselves.)

The execution of this painting is spectacular as usual. It has a complete feeling of depth and atmosphere while staying loose.

I can't even begin to say enough about the composition. It works so well, and I wonder how you came up with it!

Cheers!

[Tom Edgerton]

Alex--

This composition is just breathtaking...you never fail to find the unexpected, arresting angle.

This just astounds me.

--TE

[Linda Brandon]

Gosh, Alex, this is a wonderful painting! I love the perspective and the mood and the painting is both contemporary and traditional at the same time.

You never fail to impress me.

[Sharon Knettell]

Here is a beauty I missed while playing nurse.

What an elegant composition. I love the dramatic swoop of the harp. One wonderful touch, I think is quite enchanting and brings it right into the 21th century is the young man's bare feet under the sheet music holder.

Beautiful brushwork as usual and a stunning design.

[Garth Herrick]

Originally Posted by Tom Edgerton

Alex--

This composition is just breathtaking...you never fail to find the unexpected, arresting angle.

This just astounds me.

--TE

Dear Alex,

My goodness, this is a wonderful painting! I did a real doubletake, because as you know Alex, I have visited in this room many times, and know your two subjects as well! This is very real and natural to me to the tiniest nuance. You are an amazing painter! Bravo!

Is there a recording too?

Garth

[Alexandra Tyng]

Thanks, Carlos and Garth!

Carlos, you are right that my daughter leads the way into the painting. I had first thought to only paint her playing the harp, but I think that idea ended up evolving into the portrait known as The Young Harpist (probably because that girl's dress and harp are so spectacular). This evolved another way. After all, when a violin and harp play together, the harp is the accompanist. So it makes sense that your eye goes towards the violininst. It was pretty intuitive while I was designing the composition, but it's clear to me now (thanks to you all pointing things out)!

Garth, thank you for your vote of confidence-- it is reciprocated! I'm glad to know you think the room looks natural. I spent a long time and many repaintings getting the color right. For some reason, maybe because our house is rather dark in the evenings, the value changes and exact hues (especially in very dark values) were very difficult to balance. As for recordings, we probably do have a video of the concert when they played the duet. Do you think I should attach sound to this painting?

[Linda Ciallelo]

I didn't see this painting before. I love the tension in your subjects. I love playing music, and do play the violin. You have captured the thrill of making music. The composition is wonderful. Congratulations and good luck.

[Alexandra Tyng]

Allan, Vianna, Sharon and Linda--thank you for all your kind words!