Caroline Estelle: À LA MODE

Just in time for summer, Vision Gallery presents À LA MODE, paintings by Caroline Estelle. Images and notions of summer can evoke a sense of joy and escapism.  With warmer weather, people feel more liberated, but as the articles of clothing become smaller, the societal pressures to have an “acceptable” body grow larger.  Through saccharine colors and hyperrealized forms, Estelle embraces the idealized notions of summery scenes.  However, after further examination, one begins to notice that the bodies are intentionally distorted and uncharacteristic of the idealized female forms found in advertisements and art history.  Despite their uncanny appearance, these figures still maintain traits that make them relatable with rolls, folds, and skin discoloration.  These paintings prompt the viewer to consider their own preconceived notions of representations of the human body. They are a reminder to advocate that summertime should be a time of leisure without judgement, and that all bodies are swimwear bodies.

Learn more about Caroline Estelle here.