{"title":"Myth and Reality","description":"\u003ch6 style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e'Ross Watson does for Caravaggio what Mendelssohn did for Bach:  both have 're-discovered' Old Masters, or at least introduced them to new audiences.'\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/h6\u003e\n\u003ch6 style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003eProfessor Martin Comte OAM, PhD\u003c\/h6\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003eIn Caravaggio’s time, artists could not simply paint whatever they wanted. I’m reminded here of my freedom as an artist. Imagine what Caravaggio might paint if he were alive today? The painting marks an important shift in my art, as St Peter is replaced with the contemporary figure, Francois Sagat, who is unmistakably part of the scene, physically nailed to the cross. Continuing to celebrate positive gay role models is important to me. Unfortunately, there are still too many who can benefit from them.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"untitled-02-16-after-raphael-1600-brendan-and-zoe","title":"Untitled #02\/16 (after Raphael, 1600; Brendan and Zoe)","description":"\u003cp\u003eUnframed\u003cbr\u003e60 x 56 cm \/ 2' x 1' 10\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFramed\u003cbr\u003e84 x 80 cm \/ 2'9\" x 2'7\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOil on board\u003cbr\u003e2016\u003cbr\u003eSigned lower left\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA Private Collection, New York\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn this elegant painting Watson has explored the themes of the beginning of new life.  He has referenced Raphael's Madonna and child which he has enjoyed visiting regularly at the National Gallery in London.  Depicted with his new born daughter Zoe, Brendan Bourassa is contemplatively engaged with his new role as father and guardian.  The striking colour balance of the painting is set off by the vivid orange hues of the fabric overlying the models lap in contrast to the rich red and green dress of the Madonna.  The overall effect is a calm balance of tranquility in this exemplary example of Watson's paintings.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAvailable Edition Print Options\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/rosswatson.com\/products\/untitled-02-16-after-raphael-1600-brendan-and-zoe-1\" title=\"Untitled #02\/16 (after Raphael, 1600; Brendan and Zoe) Limited Edition Canvas by Ross Watson\"\u003eVIEW Limited Edition Canvas\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/rosswatson.com\/products\/untitled-02-16-after-raphael-1600-brendan-and-zoe-2\" title=\"Untitled #02\/16 (after Raphael, 1600; Brendan and Zoe) Limited Edition Print by Ross Watson\"\u003eVIEW Limited Edition Print\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ross Watson","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":18254626127983,"sku":"OOB-0216","price":0.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0051\/6381\/0927\/products\/Untitled0216.jpg?v=1542589636"},{"product_id":"untitled-01-16-after-caravaggio-1593-featuring-alex-skinner","title":"Untitled #01\/16 (after Caravaggio, 1593; featuring Alex Skinner)","description":"\u003cp\u003eUnframed\u003cbr\u003e76 x 90 cm \/ 30\" x 35\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFramed\u003cbr\u003e 97 x 111 cm \/ 38\" x 44\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOil on board\u003cbr\u003e2016\u003cbr\u003eSigned lower left\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCollection, The Artist\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOne of Ross Watson's most personal artworks, \u003cstrong\u003eUntitled 01\/16 (after Caravaggio, 1593; featuring Alex Skinner) \u003c\/strong\u003etook over 2 months to complete, and explores the fragility of life.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eReferencing \u003cstrong\u003eCarvaggio's Boy with a Basket of Fruit\u003c\/strong\u003e, c.1593, featuring the Caravaggio's companion Mario Minniti, who engages us whilst holding a basket of fruit.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHolding a laptop on the painting's right side is Mario's contemporary counterpart, Alex Skinner. The artist's thoughtful composition places Skinner before the right side of the basket, and importantly, a prominent yellowing grape leaf.  In contrast to Mario he looks down, apparently contemplating the grape leaf which Watson has featured on the luminous screen in bright artificial light.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHighly significant is that the leaf shows disorders: fungal spots, and we can imagine it is about to fall. Watson's Skinner presents it, just as Mario presents the basket of fruit.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUnprecedented for Watson's art is his painted depiction of part of a classical painting on modern technology, rendered in the bright artificial light from a laptop's screen, the very kind we today look at on a daily basis.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe may consider the two young men, the basket's immaculate fruit, and the natural process of decay that is part of all living things. We are reminded that everything in life is transitory - an apparently delicious collection of fruit is not destined to survive for long.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAvailable Edition Print Options\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/rosswatson.com\/products\/untitled-01-16-after-caravaggio-1593-featuring-alex-skinner-1\" title=\"Untitled #01\/16 (after Caravaggio, 1593; featuring Alex Skinner) Limited Edition Print by Ross Watson\"\u003eVIEW Limited Edition Print\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ross Watson","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":18254668333167,"sku":"OOB-01\/16","price":80000.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0051\/6381\/0927\/products\/Untitled0116.jpg?v=1542589814"},{"product_id":"untitled-01-10-after-caravaggio-1602-featuring-francois-sagat","title":"Untitled #01\/10 (after Caravaggio, 1602; featuring Francois Sagat)","description":"\u003cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e85 x 76 cm \/ 33\" x 30\"\u003cbr\u003eOil on board\u003cbr\u003e2010\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA Private Collection, New York\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAvailable Edition Print Options\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/rosswatson.com\/products\/untitled-01-10-after-caravaggio-1602-featuring-francois-sagat-2\" title=\"Untitled #01\/10 (after Caravaggio, 1602; featuring Francois Sagat) Limited Edition Print\"\u003eVIEW Limited Edition Print\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/rosswatson.com\/products\/untitled-01-10-after-caravaggio-1602-featuring-francois-sagat-3\" title=\"Untitled #01\/10 (after Caravaggio, 1602; featuring Francois Sagat) Iconic Small Print\"\u003eVIEW Iconic Small Print\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ross Watson","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":18254707163247,"sku":"OOB-01\/10","price":0.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0051\/6381\/0927\/products\/untitled0110.jpg?v=1542590009"},{"product_id":"untitled-02-10-after-caravaggio-1600-featuring-matthew-mitcham","title":"Untitled #02\/10 (after Caravaggio, 1600; featuring Matthew Mitcham)","description":"\u003cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e78 x 61 cm \/ 31\" x 24\"\u003cbr\u003eOil on board\u003cbr\u003e2010\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA Private Collection, Miami\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAvailable Edition Print Options\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/rosswatson.com\/products\/untitled-02-10-after-caravaggio-1600-featuring-matthew-mitcham-1\" title=\"Untitled #02\/10 (after Caravaggio, 1600; featuring Matthew Mitcham) Limited Edition Canvas\"\u003eVIEW Limited Edition Canvas\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/rosswatson.com\/products\/untitled-02-10-after-caravaggio-1600-featuring-matthew-mitcham-2\" title=\"Untitled #02\/10 (after Caravaggio, 1600; featuring Matthew Mitcham) Limited Edition Print\"\u003eVIEW Limited Edition Print\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/rosswatson.com\/products\/untitled-02-10-after-caravaggio-1600-featuring-matthew-mitcham-3\" title=\"Untitled #02\/10 (after Caravaggio, 1600; featuring Matthew Mitcham) Iconic Small Print\"\u003eVIEW Iconic Small Print \u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ross Watson","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":18254754840687,"sku":"OOB-02\/10","price":0.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0051\/6381\/0927\/products\/untitled0210.jpg?v=1542590142"},{"product_id":"untitled-03-10-after-van-de-velde-1672-featuring-matthew-mitcham","title":"Untitled #03\/10 (after van de Velde, 1672; featuring Matthew Mitcham)","description":"\u003cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e78 x 61 cm \/ 31\" x 24\"\u003cbr\u003eOil on board\u003cbr\u003e2010\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003eA Private Collection, Los Angeles\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5 style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003eAvailable Edition Print Options\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/rosswatson.com\/products\/untitled-03-10-after-van-de-velde-1672-featuring-matthew-mitcham-2\" title=\"Untitled #03\/10 (after Van de Velde, 1672; featuring Matthew Mitcham) Limited Edition Print by Ross Watson\"\u003eVIEW Limited Edition Print\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ross Watson","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":18254942404719,"sku":"OOB-03\/10","price":55000.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0051\/6381\/0927\/products\/untitled0310.jpg?v=1542590826"},{"product_id":"untitled-04-10-after-caravaggio-1602-featuring-francois-sagat","title":"Untitled #04\/10 (after Caravaggio, 1602; featuring Francois Sagat)","description":"\u003cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e77 x 61 cm \/ 31\" x 24\"\u003cbr\u003eOil on board\u003cbr\u003e2010\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA Private Collection, New York\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAvailable Edition Print Options\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/rosswatson.com\/products\/untitled-04-10-after-caravaggio-1602-featuring-francois-sagat-1\" title=\"Untitled #04\/10 (after Caravaggio, 1602; featuring Francois Sagat) . Limited Edition Canvas by Ross Watson\"\u003eVIEW Limited Edition Canvas\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/rosswatson.com\/products\/untitled-04-10-after-caravaggio-1602-featuring-francois-sagat-2\" title=\"Untitled #04\/10 (after Caravaggio, 1602; featuring Francois Sagat) . Limited Edition Print by Ross Watson\"\u003eVIEW Limited Edition Print\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ross Watson","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":18294769483887,"sku":"OOB-04\/10","price":0.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0051\/6381\/0927\/products\/untitled0410.jpg?v=1542672028"},{"product_id":"untitled-05-10-after-bronzino-1550-featuring-matthew-mitcham","title":"Untitled #05\/10 (after Bronzino, 1550; featuring Matthew Mitcham)","description":"\u003cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e41 x 41 cm \/ 16\" x 16\"\u003cbr\u003eOil on board\u003cbr\u003e2010\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA Private Collection, Tokyo\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis striking double portrait, featuring the Olympic Gold Medalist Diver, Matthew Mitcham, refers to Bronzino's handsome 'Portrait of a Young Man'. His occupation as a sculptor is alluded to by the marble figure on the left side of the painting.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMitcham was in a playful mood when he modeled for Watson - his second modeling session with the artist. He looks out at us with a gentle smile, his casualness in contrast to the formal and earnest young sculptor. Both have hazel brown eyes, and are of a similar age.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe profound impact of the rapid change in technological advancements on mankind is reflected in this fine painting. Mitcham is typical of millions today who rapidly and confidently navigate the internet with their smart phones, as we consider the future for printed books.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAvailable Edition Print Options\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/rosswatson.com\/products\/untitled-05-10-after-bronzino-1550-featuring-matthew-mitcham-1\" title=\"Untitled #05\/10 (after Bronzino, 1550; featuring Matthew Mitcham) Limited Edition Print by Ross Watson\"\u003eVIEW Limited Edition Print\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ross Watson","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":18294820339823,"sku":"OOB-05\/10","price":0.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0051\/6381\/0927\/products\/untitled0510.jpg?v=1542672171"},{"product_id":"untitled-06-10-after-caravaggio-1603-featuring-louie-larrinaga","title":"Untitled #06\/10 (after Caravaggio, 1603; featuring Louie Larrinaga)","description":"\u003cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e121 x 120 cm \/ 48\" x 48\"\u003cbr\u003eOil on board\u003cbr\u003e2010 \u003cbr\u003eA Private Collection, New York\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWatson has referenced Caravaggio's 'The Entombment of Christ' in its entirety, in this spectacular and monumental painting. Caravaggio's tall rectangular format has been extended on the right hand side, accommodating the contemporary figure of Louie Larrinaga, altering the format to a perfect square.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA chiaroscuro light illuminates the cascade of mourners, who are quietly counterbalanced by Larrinaga, who is seated and facing away, dramatically lit by the bright screen of his Blackberry cupped within his hands. Larrinaga shares the same slab of marble which supports the group, rendering the startlingly realistic scene all the more convincing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOur attention is drawn to the glowing Blackberry which is all important. In Caravaggio's lifetime the Vatican ultimately controlled information. Today the internet has become a powerful tool for disseminating information. A short time after Watson began this painting, the world learnt of the first Wikileaks cables.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ross Watson","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":18295645896815,"sku":"OOB-06\/11","price":0.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0051\/6381\/0927\/products\/untitled0610.jpg?v=1542674782"},{"product_id":"untitled-01-12-after-caravaggio-1600-featuring-kris-evans","title":"Untitled #01\/12 (after Caravaggio, 1600; featuring Kris Evans)","description":"\u003cp\u003eUnframed\u003cbr\u003e76 x 85 cm \/ 30\" x 33\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFramed\u003cbr\u003e98 x 107 cm \/ 39\" x 43\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003eOil on board\u003cbr\u003e2012\u003cbr\u003eSigned lower right\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e A Private Collection, New York\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Calling of St Matthew' is one of Caravaggio's great religious works, and hangs in the Contarelli Chapel in Rome. Watson has relished viewing it numerous times, revisiting it again in July 2011.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHis superb most recent painting references Carvaggio's masterpiece, where Bel Ami's Kris Evans kneels spectacularly centre-stage, and is convincingly portrayed participating in the scene. Lit by the dramatic diagonal light, Evans is skillfully positioned so as not to obscure the bearded tax gatherer, Levi, and his colleagues. In the foreground are an accounting book, an inkwell, a moneybag, and Evans joins in assisting in counting coins at the table. The older, bearded man is the most prominent figure amongst the group of tax collectors; he looks directly at the new arrivals and with the gesture of his left hand relates the summons unmistakably to himself.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn the 'The Calling of St Matthew' Caravaggio chose to highlight only Jesus' face and hand. Watson has taken this a step further cropping a portion from the right-side, thereby highlighting the extended arms of Jesus and St Peter commanding to follow them? Who though will rise in order to follow unreservedly his calling to be a disciple? Watson's choice of Evans positioned centre-stage is in keeping with who Jesus called as disciples and ministered to.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCaravaggio often had to grapple with the particular requirements that pictures destined for a sacred setting were expected to fulfill with regards to the stipulations of decorum. Watson's addition of Evans kneeling on the table echoes Caravaggio's revolutionary presentation of his subjects. It would appear unremarkable to many in the 21st century, though would without doubt have been rejected as a commissioned work by church authorities in the early 17th century. Whilst Evan's career choice is condemned by some, this fine painting evokes the compassion and differentiation inherent in many catholics today to issues of morality, which in contrast, the Vatican continues to condemn.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAvailable Edition Print Options\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/rosswatson.com\/products\/untitled-01-12-after-caravaggio-1600-featuring-kris-evans-1\" title=\"Untitled #01\/12 (after Caravaggio, 1600; Kris Evans) Limited Edition Canvas by Ross Watson\"\u003eVIEW Limited Edition Canvas\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/rosswatson.com\/products\/untitled-01-12-after-caravaggio-1600-featuring-kris-evans-2\" title=\"Untitled #01\/12 (after Caravaggio, 1600; Kris Evans) Limited Edition Print by Ross Watson\"\u003eVIEW Limited Edition Print\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ross Watson","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":18295679025263,"sku":"OOB-01\/12","price":0.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0051\/6381\/0927\/products\/untitled0112.jpg?v=1542674974"},{"product_id":"untitled-02-12-after-caravaggio-1594-featuring-luke-evans","title":"Untitled #02\/12 (after Caravaggio, 1594; featuring Luke Evans)","description":"\u003cp\u003eUnframed\u003cbr\u003e61 x 71 cm \/ 24\" x 28\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFramed\u003cbr\u003e82 x 92 cm \/ 32\" x 36\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOil on board\u003cbr\u003e 2012\u003cbr\u003e Signed lower left\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003eA Private Collection, Miami\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLuke Evans' inclusion in Caravaggio's \u003cem\u003eCardsharps\u003c\/em\u003e appears to increase the sense of tension and suspense in this dramatic painting.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLuke Evans modeled for Watson during the filming of the Hobbit in New Zealand, playing the role of 'Bard the Bowman'. The handsome and charismatic Evans' career has the trajectory of a rocket, starring in 'The Raven', 'The Three Musketeers' and 'The Immortals'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA most subtle, though significant detail, is Evans holding his iPhone which resembles a playing card. It is Watson's intention to communicate how pervasive social media has become in our society. With instant access from smart phones we are now constantly in contact with each other. The benefits are vast, often at the sacrifice of privacy. Used thoughtlessly or with malice, it can unfortunately result in the same ingredients inherent in Caravaggio's \u003cem\u003eCardsharps\u003c\/em\u003e - dishonest misrepresentations and betrayal.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen Caravaggio painted the \u003cem\u003eCardsharps\u003c\/em\u003e, he offered something new to the renaissance art-world; realistic scenes of street life, especially with beautifully rendered attention to little details such as the backgammon board or the teenage cheat's anxious glance at his master. In Watson's version the psychological insight is striking, the four figures are bound together by a common drama, yet each has his own unique role within the larger play.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eCardsharps\u003c\/em\u003e with its mixture of brutal low-life realism and luminous Venetian delicacy, was much admired when it was first exhibited. Over fifty copies and variants made by other painters have survived to this day.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAvailable Edition Print Options\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/rosswatson.com\/products\/untitled-02-12-after-caravaggio-1594-featuring-luke-evans-1\" title=\"Untitled #02\/12 (after Caravaggio, 1594; featuring Luke Evans) Limited Edition Print by Ross Watson\"\u003eVIEW Limited Edition Print \u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ross Watson","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":18295752949871,"sku":"OOB-02\/12","price":0.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0051\/6381\/0927\/products\/untitled0212.jpg?v=1542675198"},{"product_id":"untitled-03-12-after-viouet-1640-featuring-steven-webb","title":"Untitled #03\/12 (after Vouet, 1640; featuring Steven Webb)","description":"\u003cp\u003eUnframed\u003cbr\u003e80 x 75 cm \/ 32\" x 30\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFramed\u003cbr\u003e102 x 97 cm \/ 40\" x 38\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOil on board\u003cbr\u003e2012\u003cbr\u003eSigned lower right\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA Private Collection, Monona, WI, USA\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRoss Watson recently viewed the Rape of Europa by Simeon Vouet in the exhibition Riotous Baroque at Zurich's Kunsthaus. He knew at once the theatrical masterpiece would be the most perfect reference for his painting featuring British actor Stevie Webb, who has enjoyed a very successful career since he played the lead role in Oliver at the London Palladium at age 10. The introduction of Webb to the scene appears to intensify and reinforce the qualities associated with the Baroque - dynamism, sensuality, extravagance and theatricality.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWatson's work faithfully follows Ovid's text in The Metamorphoses. Jupiter, who has fallen in love with Europa, daughter of the King of Tyre, has transformed himself into a bull and mingles with the cattle on the seashore where she is playing with her companions. Appreciating the animal's beauty, Europa approached him and covered his horns with flowers. The animal's docility encouraged her to sit on its back, at which moment Jupiter made his escape with her, plunging into the water.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWatson has chosen the moment just prior to Webb taking a bite of the ripe fruit, just as Vouet has chosen the moment just prior to the flight, when Europa has placed the flowers on the beast's head and is sitting on its back. Our focus though is drawn to the very centre of the composition, which is occupied by Webb, and Watson appears to mock an old metaphor which refers to indulgence or pleasure being harmful, particularly relating to human sexuality.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis superb master work is a fine example of a genre of Watson's art, which presents the contemporary figure mirroring the theme or mood of the classical work he has referenced. The note of sexual desire in the painting is provided by Webb's sensuous pose, and the bull, which Vouet has depicted with spittle dripping from its muzzle and a somewhat licentious expression.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ross Watson","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":18296387076207,"sku":"OOB-03\/12","price":0.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0051\/6381\/0927\/products\/untitled0312.jpg?v=1542677232"},{"product_id":"stephen-fry-after-vermeer-1670","title":"Stephen Fry (after Vermeer, 1670)","description":"\u003cp\u003eUnframed\u003cbr\u003e81 x 81 cm \/ 32\" x 32\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFramed\u003cbr\u003e 102 x 101 cm \/ 40\" x 40\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOil on board\u003cbr\u003e2011\u003cbr\u003eSigned lower left\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCollection, The Artist\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEnglish actor, writer, comedian and television presenter, Stephen Fry is supremely suited for Watson's painting, which explores the subjects of communication and social media. The Prince of Twitter engages us as he holds his iPad in this superb painting which references Vermeer's 'Mistress and Maid', and evokes the changes in methods of communication over the centuries. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFry looks up at us, as if distracted from the details on his illuminated screen, in a scene of dramatic tension between the mistress and maid. The subject of writing and receiving letters recurs frequently in Vermeer's work, as does the theme of communication and social media in Watson's art. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWe are reminded here of the dramatic changes in the way we communicate since Vermeer's 17th century - issues of privacy, and the positive and negative effects of social media. The young mistress may have waited six weeks to receive the letter which almost certainly was read by her alone. In the most extraordinary contrast, Stephen Fry's four million plus Twitter followers enjoy the benefit of his regular, informative and instant tweets.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAvailable Edition Print Options\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/rosswatson.com\/products\/stephen-fry-after-vermeer-1671\" title=\"Stephen Fry (after Vermeer, 1670) Limited Edition Print by Ross Watson\"\u003eVIEW Limited Edition Print\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ross Watson","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":18296430002287,"sku":"","price":80000.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0051\/6381\/0927\/products\/stephen-fry-vermeer.jpg?v=1542677427"},{"product_id":"untitled-09-12-after-caravaggio-1606-featuring-ediz-steel","title":"Untitled #09\/12 (after Caravaggio 1606; Ediz Steel)","description":"\u003cp\u003eUnframed\u003cbr\u003e40 x 40 cm \/ 16\" x 16\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFramed\u003cbr\u003e62 x 62 cm \/ 24\" x 24\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOil on board\u003cbr\u003e2012\u003cbr\u003eSigned lower left\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003eA Private Collection, Auckland\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eExploring notions of time and mortality in his series, Cycles\u0026amp;Sequences, Watson has painted Ediz Steel, a musician whose great passion is playing guitar, and who at 15 years of age inhabits the curious period between youth and adulthood.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCaravaggio's 'St John the Baptist' is referenced in this fine painting, which illustrates a striking contrast between Steel's carefree and meditative absorption, and the brooding intensity of St John whose face is cast in deep shadow.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eProviding a beautifully subtle element, Watson has aligned the vibrant red tones of Steel's guitar to blend seamlessly with Caravaggio's drapery. The vibrant red and the exquisitely bright yellow-tangerine butterfly are enriched by the complementary opposite olive-emerald green t-shirt between them.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAvailable Edition Print Options\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/rosswatson.com\/products\/untitled-09-12-after-caravaggio-1606-ediz-steel\" title=\"Untitled #09\/12 (after Caravaggio, 1606; Ediz Steel)\"\u003eVIEW Limited Edition Canvas\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ross Watson","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":18296532402287,"sku":"OOB-09\/12","price":0.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0051\/6381\/0927\/products\/untitled0912.jpg?v=1542677679"},{"product_id":"untitled-04-14-after-caravaggio-1602-paul-cicchetti","title":"Untitled #04\/14 (after Caravaggio, 1602; featuring Paul Cicchetti)","description":"\u003cp\u003eUnframed\u003cbr\u003e61 x 76 cm \/ 24\" x 30\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFramed\u003cbr\u003e88 x 102 cm \/ 35\" x 40\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOil on board\u003cbr\u003e2014\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSigned lower left \u003cbr\u003eA Private Collection, Reno, NV, USA\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"I'm very grateful to live in a time and place where I enjoy freedom of expression, unburdened by moral and religious constraints. I have always been attracted to men, and it has always felt natural and authentic to explore the male nude and themes relating to my sexuality in my art.\" Watson recently wrote.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCan you imagine what Caravaggio might have painted if he'd had complete artistic freedom?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRoss Watson's captivating artwork Untitled 04\/14, was inspired by that imagining. Through his inclusion of the proudly and comfortably naked model Paul Cicchetti, Watson draws our attention to the fact that despite being attracted to men, Caravaggio never appears to have painted a full frontal adult male nude.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCicchetti holds the strap of a back pack - a single detail confirming he lives in the present day, as he appears to mirror the good humoured and engaging Winged Cupid - perhaps Caravaggio's most iconic and popular work. This astonishingly realistic scene is indeed a great example of Ian McKellen's observation of Watson's art - \"The conjunction of modern naturalism and classic works makes it hard to believe ones eyes.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003eImportantly, Untitled 04\/14 demonstrates \"Ross Watson is just the right person to help teach honesty to our emotions in art and the essential beauty of sexual truth.\" wrote Michael Kirby, a former Justice of the High Court of Australia.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5 style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003eAvailable Edition Print Options\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/rosswatson.com\/products\/untitled-04-14-after-caravaggio-1602-paul-cicchetti-1\" title=\"Untitled #04\/14 (after Caravaggio, 1602; Paul Cicchetti) Limited Edition Canvas by Ross Watson\"\u003eVIEW Limited Edition Canvas\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/rosswatson.com\/products\/untitled-04-14-after-caravaggio-1602-paul-cicchetti-2\" title=\"Untitled #04\/14 (after Caravaggio, 1602; Paul Cicchetti) Limited Edition Print by Ross Watson\"\u003eVIEW Limited Edition Print\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ross Watson","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":18303015321711,"sku":"OOB-04\/14","price":0.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0051\/6381\/0927\/products\/Untitled0414.jpg?v=1542687661"},{"product_id":"untitled-01-15-after-caravaggio-1604-featuring-luke-evans","title":"Untitled #01\/15 (after Caravaggio,1604; featuring Luke Evans)","description":"\u003cp\u003eUnframed\u003cbr\u003e90 x 76 cm \/ 36\" x 30\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFramed\u003cbr\u003e115 x 91 cm \/ 46\" x 40\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOil on board\u003cbr\u003e2015\u003cbr\u003eSigned lower left\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA Private Collection, Monona, WI, USA\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis breathtaking painting references Caravaggio's masterpiece John the Baptist, from the collection of the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art in Kansas City. In 1604 Caravaggio was commissioned to paint a John the Baptist for the papal banker and art patron Ottavio Costa. Costa intended it for an altarpiece for a small oratory in the Costa fiefdom of Conscente, but liked it so much that he sent a copy to the oratory and kept the original in his own collection.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePenny Grist, a curator at the National Portrait Gallery, who curated the museums exhibition Bare:Degrees of Undress, which includes two of Watson's artworks recently wrote \"Michael Jacobs in Phaidon's survey of Mythological painting noted that artists from the Renaissance onwards often turned to classical mythology as a fresh humorous and erotic alternative to religious art. In an ingenious appropriation of this tradition, Watson embraces the wild ambiguity of classical allusion and inserts his figures into classical mythology.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHere he creates a dramatic and powerful tension between Caravaggio's intensely brooding and almost impenetrably private St John, who appears to be watching over the contemporary subject, Luke Evans, the film actor. Evans in contrast appears spellbound and possesses a serene expression; lost in his own world, seemingly unaware of St John's intense presence in the wooded setting.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe handsome and charismatic actor is depicted wearing a cream leather hooded jacket - purchased by the artist in the city most identified with Caravaggio, Rome.  A nod by Watson to the tradition in classical painting of depicting saints with cloaks, especially considering celebrity is oft considered modern day sainthood.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe right hands of both figures are virtually identical in position, and both hold something. Only just revealed in Evan's hand is a smart phone, in comparison to the staff held by St John; each a tool of their times used for herding their respective flocks.  The modern saint more likely to do this via social media, in the case of Evans, to millions, controlled by a device in the palm of his hand.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003eThe striking lighting balance in this painting creates a that seamlessly blends the classical and modern. Many scholars have noted St John's figure is contrastly lit which gives him the appearance of sitting forward, into the lighter realm of the views own space. The lighting on Evans is diffused, creating depth to the painting, increasing his realism and creating a harmonious scaling between the figures, placing him quite some way into the foreground. This tension is enhanced by the muted colour palette, which is off-set by the rich and striking red fabric of the cloak upon which St John is leaning.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5 style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003eAvailable Edition Print Options\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/rosswatson.com\/products\/untitled-01-15-after-caravaggio-1604-featuring-luke-evans-1\" title=\"Untitled #01\/15 (after Caravaggio, 1604; featuring Luke Evans) Limited Edition Print\"\u003eVIEW Limited Edition Print\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ross Watson","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":18303233949807,"sku":"OOB-01\/15","price":0.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0051\/6381\/0927\/products\/Untitled0115.jpg?v=1542688014"},{"product_id":"untitled-07-11-after-vermeer-1670-florian-blume","title":"Untitled #07\/12 (after Vermeer, 1670; Florian Blume)","description":"\u003cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e38 x 39 cm \/ 16\" x 16\" \u003cbr\u003eOil on board\u003cbr\u003e2012\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA Private Collection, Tokyo\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLeading German model, Florian Blume, holds a boarding pass and appears deeply reflective. Vermeer's young lady is also lost in thought, as she writes a letter which may take many weeks to reach it's recipient. Letter writing and romance was a common theme in the art of Vermeer and many Dutch and Flemish artists in the 17th Century.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWatson presents us with a contemporary parallel, and subsequently invites us to consider the dramatic changes in communication and travel since Vermeer's lifetime.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ross Watson","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":18303404671087,"sku":"OOB-07\/11","price":0.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0051\/6381\/0927\/products\/untitled0711_64ac113a-1958-4bd3-a7ca-1266d7fba3ea.jpg?v=1542688418"},{"product_id":"james-j-odonnell-after-caravaggio-1595","title":"James J. O'Donnell (after Caravaggio, 1595)","description":"\u003cp\u003eUnframed\u003cbr\u003e122 x 122 cm \/ 4' x 4'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFramed\u003cbr\u003e 147 x 147 cm \/ 4'10\" x 4'10\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOil on board\u003cbr\u003e2014 \u003cbr\u003eSigned lower right\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA Private Collection, New York\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e$80,000 AUD\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWatson has referenced Caravaggio's Bacchus for the portrait of his patron, James J O'Donnell, who sat for the portrait in his suite at the Oriental Hotel in Bangkok.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCaravaggio's portrait of Bacchus was the first painting produced for his patron, the Cardinal Del Monte in 1595. A confluence of culture over four centuries on, sees Watson's patron, a modern day Bacchus, engaged with the God of fine wines and good living. Mr O'Donnell raises his glass in a toast with Bacchus with unmistakable admiration and the hint of a knowing smile.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis is a painting of opposites - a common element in Watson's art - the informality of Bacchus' attire is offset by the ultimate formality of Mr O'Donnell's black-tie. Watson choice of a red silk scarf blends the contrasts together, and provides an important counter balance to the painting. Both artists are renowned for their exquisite rendering of fabric, and in a subtle nod to Watson's Australian heritage, Mr O'Donnell's dress shirt is buttoned with opals.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eEach is dressed in a manner of costume suited to the convivial nature of their personalities. A depiction of each subject, that both locates them in their relevant centuries, but also gives them a timeless allure. The dark chocolate background behind Bacchus's elaborate head dress is offset by the lightened background behind Mr O'Donnell, making him appear to glow in the manner that saints were often painted during the renaissance.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eEvident in the centre of the painting is a wonderful juxtaposition contrasting the change over time of glassware, Mr O'Donnell's hands, depicted truthfully in robust life-size with a contemporary vessel, in contrast to the slender and elegant fingers of Bacchus with a delicate crystal glass, but it is the wine they share which binds them.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe foreground of the painting contains elements that integrate the subjects further. Has Bacchus just filled Mr O'Donnell's glass from the Vessel to the left? Are they celebrating news that may be contained in the envelope to the right? What is the significance of the envelope? Is it a secret communication between the artist and patron, or someone else? Only Messers Watson and O'Donnell know, or could share.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ross Watson","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":18304759660655,"sku":"OOB-JJOD","price":0.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0051\/6381\/0927\/products\/jim-odonnell.jpg?v=1542691664"},{"product_id":"tina-arena","title":"Tina Arena","description":"\u003cp\u003eUnframed\u003cbr\u003e122 x 122 cm \/ 4' x 4'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFramed\u003cbr\u003e147 x 147 cm \/ 4'10\" x 4'10\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOil on board\u003cbr\u003e2013\u003cbr\u003eSigned lower right\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCollection, Gold Coast City Gallery, QLD, Australia\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInternational singer Tina Arena recently viewed her first ever portrait, and exclaimed \"It's absolutely beautiful. Thank you - I feel honoured.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDominating the foreground; a superb sculpture by Claude Poirier, executed in 1711, which Watson sought out at the Louvre Museum, and which honours Arena's celebrated career in France. She is distinguished by being the first Australian to be awarded the Knighthood of the Order of National Merit by President Nicholas Sarkozy for her contribution to French culture.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFlowers native to Australia provide a dazzling colour contrast to the singers emerald green dress. Arena, who is one of Australia's highest selling female vocal artists, has previously declined to pose for painted portraits, but told Watson \"When I first saw your portrait of Stephen Fry, I knew the time had arrived.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAvailable Edition Print Options\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca title=\"Tina Arena Limited Edition Print by Ross Watson\" href=\"https:\/\/rosswatson.com\/products\/tina-arena-1\"\u003eVIEW Limited Edition Print\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ross Watson","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":18305161527407,"sku":"OOB-Tina","price":0.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0051\/6381\/0927\/products\/tina-arena.jpg?v=1542692545"},{"product_id":"time-after-vouet-1645-featuring-james","title":"Time (after Vouet, 1645; featuring James)","description":"\u003ch5\u003eDetails\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eUnframed\u003cbr class=\"\"\u003e80 x 85 cm \/ 32 x 34 in\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eFramed\u003cbr class=\"\"\u003e102 x 106 cm \/ 40 x 42 in\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eOil on board\u003cbr class=\"\"\u003e2020\u003cbr class=\"\"\u003eSigned lower left\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eCollection, National Gallery of Victoria, VIC, Australia\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eDescription\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis exceptional painting is one of Ross Watson’s most accomplished and detailed large scale paintings to date. The work explores the narrative of Time, referencing Simon Vouet's Baroque masterpiece Time Vanquished by Love, Hope and Fame, 1645.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAn astonishingly dramatic scene has been skilfully developed and reinforced by Watson’s extension of the left side of the composition of the classical picture. The addition of James, who hovers suspended, transfixed by the drama unfolding below brilliantly transforms Vouet's semi circular composition to a dynamic complete circle.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDuring the lock downs associated with the pandemic, Watson has utilised this period to reflect. Returning again and again to the themes of Time, Love and Hope, This led to the painting’s concept and narrative which materialised during Melbourne's lock down last October as he spotted the model James in a park exercising on Olympic rings.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVouet's allegorical composition depicts six classical figures. The foreground features an elderly man representing Time. A cherub torments him pulling at his wing, and Love and Hope in the centre pull at his hair and wing. Above them Fame calls for eternal public and social recognition from her horn. Watson's introduction of James, with his athleticism, hope and ambition is the embodiment of Youth. His life, as with his gaze, in full swing, stretching out ahead of him as he observes the mythological scene. The introduction of this youthful figure, contrasts the finality of Vouet’s original composition and reimagines a narrative of life that is cyclical and continuing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA Parisian, Vouet began his career in Italy. Similarly to Watson, his earlier works reflect the influence of Caravaggio, and features the characteristic dramatic contrast in light and shadow present in this work, which is considered one of his greatest.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eReviewing Watson’s past classical works, Time possesses not only exceptional composition and theatrical drama, but also the most varied and richly dazzling colour palette. As the artist approaches his 60th year, this arresting and important artwork marks the entry into the late stage of his career.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ross Watson Gallery","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":39272888041626,"sku":"OOB-Time","price":0.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0051\/6381\/0927\/products\/Time_afterVouet_1645_featuringJames.jpg?v=1614386351"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0051\/6381\/0927\/collections\/untitled0110.jpg?v=1543475919","url":"https:\/\/sstore.rosswatson.com\/collections\/myth-and-reality.oembed","provider":"Ross Watson Gallery","version":"1.0","type":"link"}