Steeped in the academic tradition of painting, but with a unique contemporary perspective, Katelyn Alain draws from the compositional structure, historical motifs, and virtuosic brushwork of master painters across a diverse range of genres. Her most recent work can be viewed within her one-person show, Vision and Metaphor: A New American Epic, set to open on August 27, 2019 at New Canaan Library’s H. Pelham Curtis Gallery. The show runs from August 27 – October 7, with an opening reception on Thursday, September 5 at 6 p.m. A Q & A with the artist begins at 6:30 p.m.; all are welcome to attend.
Employing a palette of rich hues to deep blacks and browns, Alain references both traditional master artists as well as contemporary images to equate visual context with well-known history paintings. Alain upends a tradition that glorifies and romanticizes the male figure and gaze. Her new work is a singular and vital response to the current times, touching on a deep uneasiness- often depicting children isolated on the water- yet also heroically in charge of their own destiny or in moments of epiphany. In her new work, Alain presents an allegorical and turbulent vision, drawing from Emanuel Leutze’s iconic Washington Crossing The Delaware (1850) and various American history paintings.
As the artist herself notes, “When I began these paintings I asked myself what I needed to create in the world right now. There is a need to see ourselves and our children living wholly empowered and legitimately respected. I see a fresh future that is pushed into betterment by all hands on deck. I see new stories, new norms, and new leaders all around me. We are already moving swiftly over the water if we could just grab the oars and herald the young taking control of the boat.”

“Vision and Metaphor: A New American Epic” is sponsored by the Art Committee of New Canaan Library. Curators for the show are Christie Nichols and Susan Khiar. The art is for sale. For additional information, please contact Amara Johnson at 203.594.5079 or visit newcanaanlibrary.org.