The artwork titled “Girl in Profile” is a portrait by the artist Gwen John, associated with the Post-Impressionism movement. This painting, likely dated to the late 1910s, is part of the collection of the National Museum of Wales, Cardiff. It represents the genre of portraiture through the medium of painting.
In the artwork, we observe a young woman depicted from a side view, her profile is clearly delineated against a muted, textured background. The use of color is restrained, with a focus on earth tones that lend the work an air of subdued intimacy. The subject’s attire appears to be simple, hinting at the austerity and introspective mood that Gwen John often infused into her works. The strokes are visible, giving the piece a sense of immediacy and the rawness that often characterizes Post-Impressionist art.
The artist has captured a quiet moment, perhaps of reflection, as the girl’s gaze is directed away from the viewer. There is a delicate balance between representation and the artist’s subjective expression, which is a hallmark of the Post-Impressionist approach to art. The background is minimally detailed, directing the viewer’s attention primarily to the subject’s form and expression. Despite the seeming simplicity, there is a complexity in the way the form and color interact, creating a profound depth to the portrait.
