Celebrate Love with Art // Shades of Pink
NO. 16, Mark Rothko, 1960
Pink is soft and feminine, but it’s also a strong color that makes a visual statement. There’s a lot of pink in the air now, from fashion, to fabrics to interiors. My previous Valentine’s blogs and picks in artworks have focused on reds, the color usually associated with love and passion. But, pink represents caring, compassion and understanding, as well as love. The sentiment feels right for now. It's a warm, beautiful color - flattering, to skin, to furnishings and interiors. For those who exchange gifts on Valentine’s Day or want to give themselves a mid-winter treat, consider a piece of artwork that will brighten any grey wintry day!
One of Abstract Expressionist artist Mark Rothko's goals was to elicit emotion through his large scale Color Field paintings, like No.16 above.
Pink seems appropriate today, given the desire for calm amid uncertainty. On the design of the award-winning Sketch Restaurant in London, designer India Mahdavi said, “these days, with things being difficult, we need plenty of hugs, warmth and comforting...” The color and wall of black and white sketches are central to the design of the pink-hued space
Here are a few pink-based artworks that recently caught my eye. This work on paper by Kerri Rosenthal captures the warmth and gracefulness of pink, especially paired with a soft champagne metallic. This is a small painting, 25”x19”, but with a large presence
Artist Jeffrey Terreson layers resin and oil, into wavelike forms creating a dimensional textural work. I especially like the artwork in soft colors to appreciate the play of light and shadow
MATTER, 60"x60". Jeffrey Terreson
The contrast of graphic black and white with pink feels very fresh in Kerri Rosenthal's abstract painting
COOKIES + MILK, 36"x72", Kerri Rosenthal
Pink is present in nature, and nature’s influence is reflected by artists in their work. Photographer Allyson Monson captures the simplicity of a palm tree silhouetted against the pink sky
GOLD FEATHERS, by Allyson Monson Photography
How beautiful is the color in this abstract seascape of a Southern coastal sky by John Duckworth?
CHURCH CREEK, limited edition photo by John Duckworth
and the unexpected colors in this urban image
ON 57, Allsyon Monson Photography
Flowers are always right for Valentine’s Day. According to color consultant Kate Smith, "soft pink blossoms are the number one favorite" when giving flowers. This floral is from Shelli Breidenbach's BOTANICA Collection of modern botanical photos, they are simple and elegant
BOTANICA No. 6, Shelli Breidenbach Photography
Artist Dagmara Weinberg's digital compositions transform her photos of nature into fresh new patterns. This image captures the layers and details of a perfect pink peony
COMPOSITION 494, by Dagmara Weinberg
A look at how pink is used by an artist and designer both known for bold works. Damien Hirst paints his iconic butterflies and hearts in soft pink. Two different installations...
Interior designer Kelly Wearstler, known for her strong use of color and pattern frequently uses shades of pink to make a bold statement, from a graphic entrance
to a layered vignette including a hot pink abstract
When I meet with clients we often talk about the artworks they own. I enjoy hearing stories about when and where art purchases were made. Memories, and usually very good ones, often accompany buying art, during a memorable vacation, a random day with a friend or loved one or to mark a special occasion.
Consider art for Valentine’s day, in pink, or any color - create a new memory by celebrating with a new art purchase, for yourself or someone else in your life! I would love to hear from you…
Happy Valentine's Day!
