Audrey Flack, though trained in Abstract Expressionism, is primarily known for her photorealist works -- or, as she refers to them, “superrealist”. In these paintings, In the 1980s, Flack paints an assortment of objects in a space approximately four inches deep. The objects, often toys, evoke nostalgia and explore the purpose of material objects in creating a personal or cultural identity. Flack moved from painting to sculpture, particularly in the form of public commissions. She sculpts idealized female forms, often drawn from history, to be archetypes of abstract concepts such as power, energy, or a cultural history. Flack’s works, whether painting or sculpture, often have feminist undertones. In Spitfire, Flack paints a strew of toy planes and magazines, regarded by society as “boy” toys. Amidst these toys Flack has included a string of pearls which, alongside an array of model paints, hint at the presence of the (woman) artist.
- C Rasmussen 9/19
Display Status
This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.
Object Details
Date
1973
Country of Origin
United States of America
Type
ART-Paintings
Medium
Painting, acrylic, oil, glazes on canvas
Artist
Audrey Flack
Physical Description
Model airplanes aranged showing outside packaging of boxes and reflections. The title "Spitfire' is seen as the title of one of the boxes. Model paints and a strand of pearls appear in the foreground. The work is painted in the photorealist style.
Dimensions
2-D - In Frame (H x W x D): 186.2 x 255.3 x 10.2cm (73 5/16 in. x 100 1/2 in. x 4 in.)
Inventory Number
A19790054000
Credit Line
The Stuart M. Speiser Photorealist Collection. Gift of Stuart M. Speiser.
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
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