As you walk up the stairs at the Milwaukee Art Museum to the landmark survey exhibition “50 Paintings,” there are signs providing great advice to pay attention to the details, look for the brushstrokes and check for shadows. This exhibition, co-curated by Margaret Andera and Michelle Grabner, delivers on the promise to showcase the talents and trends in painting today. Here are three standouts in a selection of remarkable artworks:
It’s time to pick your Milwaukee favorites for the year!
Last Words by Josephine Halvorson
This painting memorializes the desk of Halvorson’s late father, showing an intensely real looking workspace featuring furling calendar pages, a takeout menu, a ticking clock and more. Each detail in this intricate still life is painted with care and love, with legible notes like “I’m so happy for you” sprinkled throughout.
Self-portrait as a country club legend by Jake Troyli
Painted by the youngest artist in the showcase, this self-portrait features the painter holding a racquet against an intensely blue background. His melancholy demeanor paired with the word “legend” in the title shows off Troyli’s sense of humor.
Then whets, and combs its silver wings by Fiona Rae
The liveliness of this abstract painting draws you in. Follow the brushstrokes to see how Rae creates a sense of movement throughout the piece. It’s playful and captivating, and the longer you stare at it, the more you’ll appreciate the intentionality behind each stroke.
The exhibition is on view through June 2024. For tickets and more info go to mam.org.
