A Collection of Works: Jacksonville State University

This piece was done while attending the Farnsworth School of Painting in Sarasota, FL.

Miriam's 1963 oil on linen painting, "Orange Marmalade," pays homage to the Impressionist style, particularly reminiscent of Paul Cézanne's work "Curtain, Jug and Fruit Bowl" and tantalizes the viewer with a deceptively simple subject matter: a table adorned with a bowl of fruit, an empty plate with knife, and an open jar of orange marmalade jelly.

The influence of Cézanne's iconic still lifes is evident in Miriam’s composition. She arranges the elements with deliberate care. A window to the side bathes the scene in natural light, casting gentle shadows and illuminating the table, and adding depth and dimension to the arrangement. Beyond the window, a glimpse of trees and sky suggests an outdoor setting, enhancing the sense of tranquility and connection to nature.

The fruit in the bowl strengthens the half-full jar of orange marmalade — a focal point of the painting. One can almost taste the sweetness of the fruit and imagine the tangy aroma filling the room. The work invites us to savor the present moment, reminding us that life's pleasures are as temporary as the fruits that adorn the piece.

The inclusion of an empty plate with a knife resting on it and sliced orange to the side adds a subtle touch of narrative to the scene. Perhaps it alludes to a past meal or a moment paused, suggesting the transitory nature of existence. The crumpled napkin, casually placed beside the plate, further enhances the atmosphere of everyday domesticity.

A yellow curtain hangs behind the table, providing a warm and inviting backdrop. Its presence, combined with the window and the outside view, creates a spatial depth and a sense of visual expansion as if inviting the viewer to step into the scene.