Self-portrait of Thomas Arthur Bridson
Date made: 1950s
Artist: Bridson, Thomas Arthur
Description: The portrait, in oils, has been painted using a heavy-textured technique where the oil paint has been built up layer upon layer to produce an almost three-dimensional effect. The heavy black glutinous background means that the artist appears to emerge, luminous, out of the gloom. The painting has been finished with a varnish that makes it appear to glisten when viewed from different angles. Bridson has painted every last lump, bump and discolouration of his body; this can be seen in particular on his wrist and forehead. As a result the heavy layering of paint and the almost translucent quality of some of the layers and colours give the impression of broken veins under the skin. The painting of his hand is almost an anatomical study in terms of the detail he captures. The eyes have no white specks in the pupils but the effect of the glistening varnish means that the portrait is still full of life, although one captured in extreme but vibrant decrepitude. The layering of the paint around the eyes also heightens the impression of them being deep set and gazing out from the depths of the face. The artist’s expression is quite enigmatic leaving the viewer unsure as to what thoughts are going through Bridson’s mind.
Background:
T.A. Bridson is well-known for being the oldest working Manx artist. This self-portrait was donated to the Manx Museum in 1959 by his sister and is thought to have been painted by the artist in the 1950s when he was in his 90s.
Comparisons:
Although in extreme old age, Bridson has arguably produced the most dynamic of artists’ self-portraits, with his hand literally caught in mid-brushstroke. The painting stands apart from the other portraits in that he appears to be the only artist who looks relatively happy and content.
Measurements: unframed artwork: 57 cm x 47 cm
Materials: Oil
Object name: painting
Collection: Art Collection
ID number: 1959-0136
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