Older, but Very Much Alive
- Acrylic on canvas (9 panels)
-
30 x 816 in
(76.2 x 2072.64 cm)
- Ralph Gilbert
Artist: Ralph Gilbert x
Painter Ralph Gilbert chose the senior center itself as his subject matter. The octagonal painting installation in the cove ceiling overhead and the small companion painting near the reception desk depict a variety of ethnically-diverse seniors involved in the various activities offered at the Helene S. Mills Senior Multipurpose Facility. Gilbert hoped to capture the enthusiasm and companionship generated among the participants as they engage in dining, water aerobics, billiards, ceramics, exercise, dance lessons, reading, computer work, watching television, or simply in conversation. Gilbert, who has produced an impressive variety of personal and public works over the years, begins his work with numerous sketches, studies and drawings. After conversations with the seniors at the center, as well as with his own mother, he has produced narrative works that elegantly combine direct observation and symbolism with classical painting techniques. These skillful, thoughtful paintings invite a respectful meditation on the fullness and quality of life possible in one’s “older” years.
- Subject Matter: figures
- Created: 2003
- Inventory Number: PA.2003.3a
- Current Location: Helene S Mills Senior Multipurpose Facility - 515 John Wesley Dobbs Avenue Atlanta, GA 30312 (google map)
- Collections: Public Art Commissions