In her representations of the human form, Naomi Gallay transcends the boundaries of classical portraiture and gestural abstraction. Paint, applied in angular patches, develops into a visually pleasing series of works that capture a languid yet elegant mood.  

Under these deceptively placid painterly surfaces lies a commentary on social constructs, on identity and race. Gallay explores our perception of race through her use of abstracted forms and tonal contrast — often using multiple skin tones to create the complexion of one figure. To make works that speak to the socio-cultural moment without feeling forced

or overly political is no easy feat, and Gallay succeeds at doing just this.

 

Credits: Patrisha Zabrycki, art critic based in New York.