by Elizabeth Manson
photos by Bona Hong

The corner of North Venice and Pacific was abuzz with art enthusiasts for the opening of “Alice Neel: Paintings” at LA Louver last Thursday, May 20th. I readily admit to my ignorance about Neel and her legacy, but her name is obviously a big draw in the sophisticated art community—the gallery echoed with intense intellectual discussion as throngs of art-lovers poured through the doors. I, in my ignorant bliss, was caught in between clusters of people animatedly pointing at the different paintings and talking about “how clearly she related to the different people.” Though, upon overhearing that little gem of wisdom, I began to look at the paintings instead of just people-watch.

Once I really looked, I was struck with how Neel really did portray the relationships she had with her subjects (who were all friends, family members, and acquaintances); you not only see how she related to the different people, but how they, in turn, related to her. The piece “Linus and Ava Pauling, 1962,” for example, shows an elderly couple completely at ease with the painter and her process—their dopey smiles and casual posture illustrate complete familiarity—while “Kris Kirsten, 1971″ (my absolute favorite) was obviously trying to impress the prolific painter. Simply from his face and posture, you can tell that he took the process of being immortalized in paint very seriously; his arched eyebrows and upturned lip are indicative of absolute haughtiness. That, and the man is wearing a fur coat. I loved it.

The ability to construct a narrative based on each piece all hinged on one important aspect of her pieces: the faces. For me, it was all in the faces. The paint captured an indescribable familiarity; it was the feeling that tickles the back of your brain—I know this person, but from where? For each painting, I had to read the name carefully to make sure it wasn’t a name I recognized. This is what amazed me most about Neel’s paintings: the essence she captured for each of her subjects is recognizable and universal. Do I know rocker Joey Scroggs from 1976? No, but I feel like I do.

Quick View:
WHAT: “Alice Neel: Paintings” opening reception and exhibit
WHERE: LA Louver, 45 North Venice Boulevard, Venice, California 90291
WHEN: May 20, 6-9 P.M.
EXHIBITION DATES: May 20 – June 26, 2010
WEBSITE: http://www.lalouver.com/