"Sculpture in Limestone"
by Farimah Eshraghi
Emotions - acrylic paintings and linocuts
6 August to 29 October 2023
The Budgeon's display case, Richmond Library Foyer
Review by Madelaine Schumann
abstract in_blue and yellow
Fairmah Eshraghi has a very distinguished Art CV as she is clearly an accomplished artist, winning many awards for her work and being exhibited in acclaimed shows both internationally and in Australia. She has studied and taught fine art and her work displays genuine skill and exceptional use of colour, tone and design, three key art elements.
The variety of pieces on show here clearly calls out to us for an emotional response that seems to reflect her passion for life, and awaken in us the simple joy of being alive. Such a varied selection of work gives us something of interest for everyone.
In her work, ‘At The Concert’, Fairmah displays skill in linocut technique and has created a beautiful, complex but somehow soothing piece of work. The figure is clearly feminine and appears to be pensively enjoying the concert amid much ado.
‘At the Concert’, acrylics on paper, 35 x 27 cm, by Farimah Eshraghi
The works on paper display intriguing layers that serve to draw the viewer into the images and invite the viewer to imagine and almost to create their own concepts, insights and responses to the artists visual stimulus.
Works on canvas include a beautiful piece titled ‘Moments’. This complex work seems to radiate light that reflects and seems to glow. The colours are beautifully applied and create a gentleness about the work, however there is a clear and defined luminous focal point that draws our eye to the centre of the circular artwork. The definition of shapes and colours softly receding as our eye moves outwards, reminiscent of vignette styles of painting. The application of the paint is so painterly that it calls to mind a richness and depth of colour that holds our gaze gleefully. A wonderful abstract study.
‘Moments’, acrylics on canvas, 30 x 30 cm, by Farimah Eshraghi
‘Melody’ is another beautiful paining on canvass that shows skilful application of colour to create movement and life and joy… The artwork is to me like a dance that sways and floats in rhythmic patterns. I particularly enjoy the broken circle, subtle yet almost a focal point for me at the top of the artwork. I like the way the circle is not complete and is within the painting not simply on the top most layer of the paint… and it is the only uniform or almost uniform aspect of the artwork amongst the free floating dance of colour. The complementary nature of the circle amongst the blended paint works well for me.
‘Melody’, acrylics on paper, 30 x 21 cm, by Farimah Eshraghi
‘Aurora’ is a very interesting piece that invites us to spend time in contemplation exploring and wandering into the artwork. The depth and layers of images - lost and found edges - hints at trees roots and water lilies come to mind but here the interpretation is in the eye of the beholder. I love the circles, incomplete, allowing our eye to imaging the rest and superimposed geometrical designs add further interest to the work. A wonderful piece of work well worth spending time with in contemplation.
‘Aurora’, acrylics on paper, 30 x 21 cm, by Farimah Eshraghi
All up, a wonderful display well worth contemplating and enjoying......
Review by Madelaine Schumann