Modigliani in Yellow (2023) is a collaboration from the grave.
My grandfather, Miles, commenced this painting at an unknown date. Although he died 15 years ago, my grandfather remains a muse for me.
In addition, I have restored Miles’ paintings and given them a new lease on life. In 2017, I finished a piece called Collaboration (1971-2017).
Many of my grandfather’s paintings were from the early 1970s. Therefore, Modigliani in Yellow (2023) is likely to be around 50 years old.
Inspired by Modigliani
Interestingly, there was no date on this painting. Miles was a photographer by trade and enjoyed copying paintings with his own trademark flair.
However, I could not find if this was a copy or an original piece. Finally, after some extensive searching, I concluded that this work was inspired by Amedeo Modigliani.
Modigliani was an Italian Jew, who worked as an artist in Paris and consumed large quantities of alcohol and hashish.
Tragically, Modigliani died from tuberculous meningitis aged 35. Posthumously, Modigliani became famous for his art. His work was categorised by a surreal elongation of the head, face and neck.
Notwithstanding this, the eyes here were too detailed for a Modigliani. Yet, the simplicity of the piece is deceptive.
My grandfather’s unfinished work on Modigliani in Yellow (2023) was painted on wood. It featured a sharp contrast between the figure and the background.
The shadow was prominent and offset by a purple hue, delicately studded with yellow. My interpretation removed some of the fuzziness and gave the piece more structure. However, I was cautious not to overwork the subject.
I kept the yellow of the clothing and hair colour, but added in shades of burnt umber and cream. I also used rose and purple to bring warmth to the background. In addition, I completed the hands and gave the suit greater depth.
Modigliani in Yellow (2023) is both a creative collaboration and original work of art. It therefore brings a special perspective, which honours my grandfather’s memory, in a contemporary manner.