American photographer Aline Smithson has reinterpreted a famous 19th century painting by James McNeill Whistler “Arrangement in Grey and Black No 1”, colloquially know as “Whistler’s Mother”. Smithson’s clever series features the artist’s grandmother dressed in hilarious outfits creating a different scene in each image. What a hoot! This may not be the first interpretation of the famous painting (in fact, I previously featured one of it’s brilliant reinterpretations), but it’s certainly one of the most amusing. Below are some words from the artist about this work:“The series incorporates traditional photography techniques, yet becomes richer with the treatment of hand painting. It is my intent to have the viewer see the work in a historical context with the addition of color, and at the same time, experience Whistler’s simple, yet brilliant formula for the composition.” “My patient 85 year-old mother posed in over 20 ensembles, but unfortunately passed away before seeing the finished series. I am grateful for her sense of humor and the time this series allowed us to be together.” [Images courtesy of Aline Smithson.] Share the love:FacebookTwitterLinkedInEmailPinterest 5 Responses Carol Carson August 1, 2013 I enjoyed this post very much. I’m presently preparing a blog post (personal, not for monetary gain) to feature the letter “C” for an ABC Wednesday blog meme. One of my themes is “comedy” in art. I wondered if you might grant permission for me to copy one of the pictures (Whistler’s mother wearing a bathing cap and a flotation device) for my post, with a description of my response to that post and a link back to your web site. Credit, of course, would be given to Aline Smithson, her grandmother and James M. Whistler. Thank you! Carol Carson Reply Carol Carson August 1, 2013 Correction: That request should have read “mother” rather than “grandmother” and I should add as well that I have envisioned Aline Smithson and her mother (now deceased) having great fun on this project. I’m sad that her mother didn’t get to see the final series but love to think that she enjoyed the shared laughter and time with her daughter. Reply yellowtrace August 1, 2013 Of course Carol. Feel free to share and good luck with your project x Carol Carson August 1, 2013 Thank you so much! I’ll send you the link when I publish my post (probably tomorrow). All the best! Carol Carson August 3, 2013 Hello again,Here is the link to my post: http://www.bikesbirdsnbeasts.blogspot.ca/2013/08/comedy-and-comradeship-for-abc.htmlThe Aline Smithson photograph is second from the end. I didn’t end up saying much more than already in my comment here but your article and those photographs have made a lasting impression. I’m so appreciative of your generosity in allowing me to use the photographs.All the best! Carol ReplyLeave a Reply Cancel ReplyYour email address will not be published.CommentName* Email* Website Δ
Carol Carson August 1, 2013 I enjoyed this post very much. I’m presently preparing a blog post (personal, not for monetary gain) to feature the letter “C” for an ABC Wednesday blog meme. One of my themes is “comedy” in art. I wondered if you might grant permission for me to copy one of the pictures (Whistler’s mother wearing a bathing cap and a flotation device) for my post, with a description of my response to that post and a link back to your web site. Credit, of course, would be given to Aline Smithson, her grandmother and James M. Whistler. Thank you! Carol Carson Reply
Carol Carson August 1, 2013 Correction: That request should have read “mother” rather than “grandmother” and I should add as well that I have envisioned Aline Smithson and her mother (now deceased) having great fun on this project. I’m sad that her mother didn’t get to see the final series but love to think that she enjoyed the shared laughter and time with her daughter. Reply
Carol Carson August 1, 2013 Thank you so much! I’ll send you the link when I publish my post (probably tomorrow). All the best!
Carol Carson August 3, 2013 Hello again,Here is the link to my post: http://www.bikesbirdsnbeasts.blogspot.ca/2013/08/comedy-and-comradeship-for-abc.htmlThe Aline Smithson photograph is second from the end. I didn’t end up saying much more than already in my comment here but your article and those photographs have made a lasting impression. I’m so appreciative of your generosity in allowing me to use the photographs.All the best! Carol Reply
