The Dream by André Romijn is a hauntingly beautiful oil painting that merges historical inspiration with contemporary artistry. Drawing from a 1910 black-and-white photograph by Imogen Cunningham, a trailblazing female photographer, the piece reimagines the original photograph’s evocative tone in rich, atmospheric oil paints.

The composition centers on a woman draped in soft, flowing fabric, her face partially obscured in shadow. Romijn masterfully uses light and shadow to emphasize the subject’s pensive expression and the subtle interplay of texture in her clothing. The figure’s pose, serene yet enigmatic, invites the viewer into a meditative moment, reflecting the painting’s title, The Dream.

The painting retains a timeless quality, blending the photographic precision of its source material with the tactile, expressive nature of oil painting. The restrained color palette—dominated by shades of black, white, and soft creams—pays homage to the monochromatic origins of Cunningham’s photograph while adding a new dimension of depth and warmth.

Exhibition Notes
Themes and Inspirations:

Tribute to Early Photography: Imogen Cunningham’s pioneering work in photography inspired Romijn to reinterpret her art through a painterly lens. The piece bridges the gap between two mediums, celebrating the artistry of both photography and oil painting.

Timeless Femininity: The subject embodies a universal, introspective quality, highlighting themes of strength, vulnerability, and quiet resilience.

Light and Shadow: Romijn’s use of chiaroscuro enhances the dreamlike quality of the composition, emphasizing mood and atmosphere over narrative.