I chose the portrait of Rosamund Adoo-Kissi-Debrah by Serena Brown. She is beautifully painted surrounded by lots of plants and colorful flowers which creates such a powerful, lovely picture.
In the picture her clothing and accessories really stood out to me because they showed off her confidence. She’s wearing a dress that flows from yellow to pink to purple.The bright colors of her clothes really make her stand out in the picture while still mixing in nicely with the vibrant colors of her surroundings. Her jewelry is nice but simple signifying that she focuses less on money and more on her achievements and character. She is presented in the picture sitting upright with good posture showing her strength and determination.
The artist uses composition, color, and light to show Rosamund’s importance. She is placed in the center of the picture making her a huge focal point. The warmer tones of her clothes contrast with the greenery surrounding her to draw the viewers attention to her. The composition of the picture gives her a really commanding presence while still showing her connection to the environment. The light illuminates the thoughtful expression on her face.
The background is extremely significant because Rosamund is a huge advocate for clean air. The abundance of plants and flowers is a symbol for nature, life, and the importance of protecting our environment. The setting reminds and teaches the viewer of her campaign work and her commitment to public’s health after her daughter died.
If I could step into this portrait, I imagine I’d be standing in a garden filled with scents of dirt, flowers, and nature. I would her birds chirping, leaves rustling, and bugs around me. The atmosphere would feel very peaceful and reflective. I would feel inspired by Rosamund’s strength and her dedication to protecting our environment and changing the world.
Theatre in London U of A 