“Throughout history, from Da Vinci to Sargent, it’s the portrait paintings that seem to fascinate us the most,” comments Fetherston. “While the term ‘windows to the soul’ may be a cliche, there is something in the human eye that transcends the mere physical. Portrait artists are called upon to express something beyond light and form and strive to engage with humanity itself.” Art connoisseurs will recognize various influences such as the meticulous form turning of the early Renaissance, 19th Century academic, as well as the luminous color harmonies of the Boston school of impressionism.

As an added dimension of interest, the show will run concurrently with an exhibition in an adjoining Moran gallery of 19th Century portrait paintings from “An Artist’s Eye: The Lukas Charles Collection”. Historically celebrated masters such as W.M. Chase, Illya Repin and Solomon J. Solomon are included in a dazzling collection and the juxtaposition of the dual presentations will offer the audience a rare opportunity to consider the evolution of portraiture through several centuries.