Author: Resa

Making Her Mark – Self Portraits III

On By ResaIn Making Her Mark146 Comments

Welcome back to our Self Portraits series! I’m your host, Resa, with co-host Rebecca Budd, curator of Chasing Art. Today We are discussing an artist from the 17th century, Elisabetta Sirani.

Resa – So Rebecca, after all you’ve learned, and passed on to me, I’ve come to think Elisabetta was Bologna’s rockstar in the early mid 1600’s. Sayest thee what to that?

Rebecca – I agree wholeheartedly, Resa. Elisabetta Sirani’s exceptional talent and prolific body of work cement her status as a celebrated artist of her time. Despite the challenges she faced as a female artist in a male-dominated field, Sirani’s enduring legacy as a pioneering Baroque painter reflects her rockstar-like influence on the art world of her era.

Over her 10-year artistic career, Sirani demonstrated exceptional productivity, creating over 200 paintings, 20 etchings, and an extensive collection of drawings. I marvel at her ability to create a life/work balance. At the young age of 19, she took on the responsibilities of managing her father’s workshop, supporting her family, and establishing an art academy to mentor and teach women artists. Elisabetta Sirani was a true rockstar of Bologna in the 17th century. In my opinion, she continues to be a rockstar today!

Resa – Well then, let’s see what you discovered!

Master of Chiaroscuro

Elisabetta Sirani was an Italian Baroque painter born in Bologna in 1638. She was the daughter of the painter Giovani Andrea Sirani, who recognized and nurtured her talent from an early age. Sirani’s artistic skills flourished, and she became known for her exceptional talent in her short life.

Despite facing challenges as a female artist in a male-dominated field, Sirani achieved great success and recognition during her career. She was prolific, producing a large body of work that included historical and biblical scenes, portraits, and allegorical paintings. Sirani’s mastery of chiaroscuro (the treatment of light and shade in drawing and painting) and her ability to depict emotion and narrative in her works garnered admiration from her contemporaries and art enthusiasts.

The Virgin Crowned by Christ Child with Roses

A Pioneering Legacy

Elisabetta Sirani’s legacy extends beyond her remarkable talent as a painter. As the successor of her father’s workshop, she also played a crucial role as a teacher, notably contributing to the development of women artists during the Renaissance period. In addition to training her sisters Barbara and Anna Maria, she also instructed at least twelve other young women at the school she established. This pioneering initiative marked the first school of painting for women in Europe outside of a convent, embracing inclusivity regardless of the women’s artistic and social backgrounds.

Elisabetta Sirani’s legacy endures through her remarkable paintings and the influence she had on future generations of artists. She remains celebrated as a pioneering female artist of the Baroque era, showcasing remarkable talent and determination in the face of societal norms.

Resa – “Making Her Mark” even had Elisabetta’s working drawing/study for the above painting. It’s a wonderful complete experience to see both.

Rebecca– I believe the painting, “Virgin Crowned by Christ Child with Roses” is all about love. Elisabetta Sirani imparts a compelling depiction of Mary as a relatable and tender young mother, diverging from the traditional portrayal of the remote Queen of Heaven. In this painting, Mary wears a turban associated with peasant women in Bologna, creating a down-to-earth portrayal. Her adoring gaze at the playful Christ child on her lap exudes a sense of genuine maternal love. Notice how the brushwork is highlighted in the textured representation of the Virgin’s white sleeve, emphasizing its rough and homespun quality. Elisabetta Sirani, with this tender and intimate moment of affection, offers a humanizing perspective of Mary and Jesus.

On the left :

The Virgin Crowned by Christ Child with Roses – 1663 – (red wash with grey chalk on paper)

On the right:

The oil on canvas painting in the same year.

An Untimely Death

Tragically, Eliabetta Sirani’s life was cut short when she passed away at the young age of 27 in August, 1665. Her untimely demise sparked controversy snd speculation. Following her sudden passing, suspicions arose, leading to the trial of her maidservant, Lucia Tolomelli, who was accused of poisoning the talented artist. The circumstances surrounding Sirani’s death led to diverse conjectures, with some attributing it to love-sickness due to her unmarried status, while others cited stress as a contributing factor.

It is widely believed that the true cause of Sirani’s demise was the onset of peritonitis following a ruptured peptic ulcer. This unfortunate event may have been exacerbated by the significant stress she experienced, particularly after being charged with providing for her entire household.

The controversy and diverse interpretations surrounding her passing have added intriguing layers to the legacy of Elisabetta Sirani, portraying a life marked by exceptional talent, determination, and the complexities of the era in which she lived.

A Rockstar Funeral

Elisabetta Sirani’s elaborate funeral reflected the deep respect and admiration held for her in Bologna. The grand ceremony featured an enormous catafalque (a decorated wooden framework supporting
the coffin) adorned with a life-sized sculpture of the esteemed artist, as depicted in Malvasia’s biography.

Orations and music composed in her honor by prominent figures from Bologna added a solemn and dignified atmosphere to the proceedings. Following this tribute, she was laid to rest in the Basilica of San Domenico, Bologna, where she joined her father’s teacher, Guido Reni, in a shared tomb

This final resting place solidifies her enduring legacy alongside revered artistic influences, commemorating her exceptional talent and remarkable contributions to the art world.

The Personification of Music

Resa – Rebecca, of all the paintings in the “Making Her Mark” exhibition, the Elisabetta Sirani allegorical painting title The Personification of Music was, and remains my favourite. Apparently she painted it in exchange for music lessons. I think she belongs in The Twenty-Seven Club, don’t you?

Rebecca – I did not know that Elisabetta Sirani exchanged her paintings for music lessons, but I am not surprised, given her proficiency as a musician in addition to her exceptional talent as a painter. This exchange speaks to her versatile creativity and passion for various art forms, further solidifying her legacy as a remarkably talented individual in the Baroque era. I agree – she belongs in The Twenty-Seven Club.

Resa – Admittedly I am smitten by this artist. I am also wild about that fact that you are here on this journey through these profiles in exceptionality. Mille Grazie, Rebecca!

Rebecca – Resa, your dedication to artistic endeavours and your profound belief in the power of creativity to enrich our world have truly inspired me. Thank you for including me on this extraordinary journey of self-discovery through Making Her Mark. I look forward to what comes next…
“Mille grazie caro amico per averci invitato a unirci virtualmente alla tua Art Gallery of Ontario. Fino alla prossima volta.“

You can also visit Rebecca by listening in on some of her fabulous Tea Toast and Trivia podcasts.

Click the above banner to view & link to Rebecca’s sources. not included in the body of text!

Photos taken by Resa © – May 14, 2024

Art Gallery of Ontario, Toronto, Canada

Raccoon Trilogy – The Peanut Butter Chronicles

On By ResaIn Garage Doors124 Comments

Chillio

A Rock Star in the world of Rooftops, he single pawedly mutilated a humane mouse trap for the dime sized bit of peanut butter inside of it.

Chillio is known to screech a mean Rap in your yard during mating season, organize climb by garden raids and gain weight.

Mr. Draper

Works as a chimney supervisor, advertising attics. It’s a stressful career, which leads to overconsumption of peanut butter cocktails before wiping out on a branch office.

Mr. Draper is wildly adept at chewing electric wires, gnawing at support beams and building nests out of insulation.

Julia Childe

A gourmet raccoon chef, Julia Childe is first cousin, several times removed by evolution, to Julia Child. The garbage can lid has not been invented that can keep this whiz with a whisk out.

Famous for scraping up a meal from the leftover peanut butter on the insides of a tossed jar in minutes flat, she is a must to cater any raccoon repast.

Pics taken by Resa – July 21 & September 23, 2023

Toronto, Canada

Garage door Artist:

Square Peg in a Round Hole – by Robbie Cheadle

On By ResaIn Book Reviews, Interviews261 Comments

This honest exposé of Africa’s nature highlights Robbie’s love for all flora and fauna.

Writing a review for this book of poetry, photography and art is truly like sticking a square peg in a round hole. It defies categorization. Yes, it is well crafted, entertaining and informative. However, it strikes out beyond those adjectives. It teaches, with heart.

Resa – Near the beginning of the book is a heart touching & humorous free form poem – The Visitor. What bird is depicted, and did you really have this visitor?

Robbie – The visitor is our semi-tame hadeda, Eleanor. She lives on our property with a male bird, although he disappears sometimes and she is always around. I feed her occasionally but not often enough for her to lose her independence as a wild bird. She will wander into my house if she gets the opportunity. I don’t mind her visiting but she can get a little upset if she can’t find her way out again. Then I have to help her. The information in that poem about the loerie birds is also true. We don’t net our fruit trees anymore.

Robbie – There is another poem in the book about our loeries being the fattest birds in the city.

Resa – I was going to ask about that poem. It makes me feel happy. I love it!

Fat Birds (shadorma)

Mangled fruit
Product of guzzling
Plump loeries
Eat and eat
I'll have to build a runway
Fattest birds in town

Resa – Growing up in Canada we had an American TV show called “Wild Kingdom”. Often it depicted the animals of Africa. They were wild, free, mysterious and dangerous. Did you have a nature show like that? Or, how did you learn about African animals?

Robbie – I have never really watched TV. It was late coming to South Africa and I never developed the habit. I always read a lot though, and one of my favourite series was Willard Price’s animal adventure books. I became very interested in the plight of wild animals as a result of these books, although at that time they mainly focused on poaching and the illegal animal trade. Interestingly, Willard Price was a Canadian.

Robbie – Later in my life, National Geographic magazines came to South Africa and I bought them every month. I had piles and piles of them and ended up giving them away each time my family moved house (21 times during my pre-marital years). After I met my husband, we started going to game farms whenever we could afford it. I’ve learned a huge amount from the various guides and game rangers. 

Resa – Then, there’s climate change.

Robbie – Climate change started coming to my attention in the ’90s, but I never really thought about it in connection with our wild animals until the early 2000s. Over my adult life to date, more and more animals have become endangered to a point where the list of ‘least concern’ animals is much shorter than the endangered list. Many ‘least concern’ animals are actually in danger of disappearing due to habitat loss. Over the past 15 years, I’ve become a lot more involved in promoting the plight of our animals and doing what I can to help support them.

King of the Beasts

“To a Lion” is a contemporary poem, that travels, with images, over 6 pages. The reality of the plight of this majestic animal is beyond what people want to comfortably know. I say the truth hurts, especially when one confronts “Canned Hunting”

Resa – When did you learn about “Canned Hunting”?

Robbie – I despise hunting. I don’t understand it and I don’t support it. Canned hunting came to my attention about 15 years ago when I overheard a few of the guides at a game farm talking about it. I didn’t know the term prior to that. According to World Atlas, there are approximately 7,000 lions held in captivity in between 160 and 200 canned hunting breeding farms in South Africa. 

Excerpt from To A Lion

You've seen your peers shot - their heads stuffed and mounted
Victims of canned hunting
Perpetrated by fools who do not appreciate your beauty
Or the vital role you play
In the maintenance of the African ecosystems
And all its amazing creatures

“The Story of the Desperate Salesman” (99 syllable double ennead) and “Nest Selection” (freestyle) are of intrigue to me. The male Weaver bird builds a nest to attract a female. If a female doesn’t accept his nest, he dismantles it. Then he builds another more elaborate than the preceding nest.

Excerpt from The Story of the Desperate Salesman

He's been building for days
King of construction
Improving his intricate weaving techniques
Working from dawn to dust
Then comes marketing

This building and dismantling is repeated until a female moves in. Somehow this parallels certain thoughts I have about societies, ergo nations. Lots to say about what this “little bird told me”, but then I’d need to write an essay.

Robbie’s poems & photos took me on a journey that was visual, emotional and introspective. A bonus to the entire experience is I learned a lot about poetic form through example. In brackets beside her poems are the types of poetic structures they are written in.

Ekphrastic Poetry with photograph contributions by Wayne Barnes, photographer

Robbie winds up her poetic offerings inspired by the wildlife photos of Wayne Barnes.

Resa – The tone of the poetry is similar to the first part of your book, but takes on an “I want to be free” vibe, with positive suggestion and encouragement. Am I right to think and feel that?

Robbie– Wayne’s photographs are wonderful. You are exactly right in your summary of the poems written in combination with Wayne’s pictures: they are “I want to be free” expressions and do include positive suggestion and encouragement.

Resa – You’ve used  mostly Wayne’s bird shots. Is there a reason for that?

Robbie – I believe that is why I chose so many birds for these combos. I see birds as being free creatures that move about and have the compete freedom of the skies. I’ve always though being a bird would be delightful. 

One of Wayne’s stunning bird beauties is at 10 seconds in the video below.


The opening words on the promo video above are from one of Michael Cheadle’s nine poems at the end of the book. His work stands on its own. He is a terrific writer, and I felt his pain. He sent this quote, when I asked about it.

Michael – “Writing poems about my anxieties helps clear them out of my mind.”

In the photo below, Robbie holds one of her novels, “A Ghost And His Gold”. This book is a superlative read. Read my review! There is so very much to say about Robbie, that you should just go to her about page!

About

Robbie is a prolific writer. You can find her books on Amazon sites around the globe. Just search “Robbie Cheadle” for children and youth books – “Roberta Eaton Cheadle” for adult books.

Some of her books are also available on KOBO.

Visit Robbie on her blogs:

Roberta Writes and Robbies Inspiration

The videos in this post are from Robbies YouTube Channel On her site there are all kinds of videos of African animals and more.

The stills in the post are by Robbie and you can download them for free on Robbie’s Unsplash Page

The stunning Lion art is © Robbie Cheadle

Let’s All Join In

On By ResaIn Music, Tributes164 Comments

This is a post about Peace, Love, Smiles & a song Trent wrote & recorded..

It began with the John Lennon post I recently did. Trent had selected a Lennon song for the event.

Then it grew into a song and video written and produced by Trent.

The lyrics are poetic, and hold a message inspired by John.

V1
I thought I saw Lennon’s face
From a trolley rocketing by
It disappeared without a trace
Did the vision also die?

His words come tumbling back
From a far off distant land
A great message on each track
A utopian dream so grand

V2
I read the news today (oh boys)
Children-human shields were killed
Drones and bombs made some noise
More innocent blood was spilled

Why is making war so appealing?
Why is love considered quaint?
I think our attitude is revealing
Our devotion to guns a taint

Chorus

So let’s all join in
Sing of peace and love again
For we all belong
In a Lennon written song
It can’t be wrong
So sing along
Let us all join in
All join in

Bridge

Such an imagination!
He made us dream
The world stood as one
Our actions could redeem

Can we remember
Perhaps even enhance
And once again
Give peace a chance?

V3
Today people gave power to the rich
A billionaire grabbed more
We’re told advancing is a cinch
Just give the billionaires more

John trusted the People’s voice
Today that seems absurd
I think that we have no choice
But to make our voices heard

(Chorus)

V4
I found the face in a doorway
Faded into nostalgic hues
The simple picture’s seen better days
Reflecting Lennon’s views

Although the decades whizzed past
Never believe that it is too late
John’s message will always last
Hold my hand, let’s temp fate

(Chorus)
(Chorus)
(Chorus)


Once a week there is usually a Weekly Smile post on Trent’s Blog, He tells about something that made him smile. He asks what made you smile.

This week I’m smiling because a street art post of mine, inspired a beautiful song about “give peace a chance” to be written & video to be made.

I’ve always believed in peace and love.

Making Her Mark – Self Portraits II

On By ResaIn Making Her Mark169 Comments

Resa – Welcome back to “Making Her Mark” – Self Portrait Series! I’m your host, Resa with special guest host Rebecca Budd – curator of Chasing Art.

Resa – So Rebecca, today we’re shining the spotlight on another accomplished female artist once buried by history, Amalia von Königsmarck.

I “fell in love” with our last artist, Sarah Biffen. Amalia von Königsmarck does not inspire the same “fell in love” in me, yet hers is nonetheless a valuable contribution to the world of art, and art remembering us. Can you speak to that?

Rebecca – Amalia von Königsmarck’s contribution to the world of art is indeed remarkable, especially considering the complex, perilous and politically charged environment in which she lived. The intricate dynamics of the royal court, especially during the Great Northern War, as well as her spouse’s involvement in the service of Augustus II the Strong, led to dire consequences. Given her status as a dilettante painter and her involvement in painting as a hobby or pastime, it is likely that her primary motivation for creating art was personal enjoyment and creative expression.  I believe that in the midst of uncertainty, Amalia chose to follow her creative spirit, which is a reminder to me that art generates positive outcomes.  That thought resonated with me when I viewed your photographs.

Resa – Okay, now I’m “fell in love”with Amalia, too! So, Rebecca, let’s check out the details on what you’ve said and what else you have discovered about Amalia von Königsmarck!

Amalia von Königsmarck – A Dilettante Painter

Amalia von Königsmarck (1663–1740) hailed from a distinguished German-Swedish noble family. Her paternal grandfather, Field Marshal Hans Christoff von Königsmarck, notably served on the Swedish side in the Thirty Years’ War and was subsequently honored with the title of a Swedish count. Meanwhile, her father, Conrad Christoff von Königsmarck, held notable roles in the Swedish possessions of Bremen and Verden, among others.

Amalia von Königsmarck married Carl Gustaf Lewenhaupt, a Swedish nobleman, in 1686. Their union was a significant aspect of her life amidst the complex dynamics of the royal court.

Allegory with Self Portrait and Profile Portrait of Queen Eleonora – 1689

Resa – The above photo I took is from the “Making Her Mark” exhibit. I was lured in by its richness. This painting was not behind glass, and on close inspection I gasped when I saw the 335 year old cracks in the oils. I thought – Rebecca would love these cracks.

Rebecca – I do love those cracks, Resa!!  This is a 335-year-old painting!!  I believe that those delicate cracks add to overall aesthetic appeal of the artwork by providing a sense of history and authenticity. The cracks, also known as craquelure, can be seen as a unique feature that showcases the passage of time and the natural aging process of the artwork. I find that the presence of cracks enhances the texture and visual interest of the painting, giving it a distinct character that sets it apart from newer, flawless pieces.

Amalia von Königsmarck’s Artistic Pursuits

Amalia von Königsmarck was known for her literary and intellectual achievements as well as for her artistic endeavors. As a member of the royal court, she delved into the world of painting and portrayed various notable figures of her time. One of her renowned paintings is a self portrait dating back to 1688, offering a personal glimpse into her life and artistic expression.

In addition to her accomplishments in visual arts, Amalia participated in the amateur theatre of the royal court, an endeavor encouraged by Queen Ulrika Eleonora of Sweden. This involvement in the theatre highlighted her multifaceted interests and contributions to the cultural life of the royal court.

In the painting, Amalia holds her portrait of Queen Ulrika, a bold nod to her relationship with the queen.

One of her hands holds paintbrushes, depicting herself as a painter. (see full painting)It is the first known image of a Swedish female painter.

Although Amalia had studied under David Klöcker Ehrenstrahl, a Swedish nobleman and portrait painter, Amalia was a dilettante painter. This refers to an individual who engages in painting as a hobby or pastime, without pursuing it as a serious or professional occupation.

Dilettante painters typically approach art with enthusiasm and interest but may not have undergone formal training or dedicated extensive time and effort to develop their skills to a professional level. Their works are often created for personal enjoyment or as a form of creative expression, without the intention of displaying or selling them in a professional art context.

Amalia and the Great Northern War

In 1695, amidst the intricate dynamics of the royal court, Amalia Lewenhaupt (Königsmarck) persuasively influenced her spouse to enter into the service of Augustus II the Strong, who was at that time engaged in a romantic relationship with her sister Aurora. However, this decision led to dire consequences, as her spouse faced the confiscation of property and a sentence of death in his absence by Charles XII of Sweden in 1703, during the tumultuous Great Northern War. Tragically, her spouse passed away in exile in Hamburg, Germany, in the same year.

The other 2 women in this allegorical portrait:

Left – winged and holding a trumpet is likely Fama, goddess of rumour and fame.

Right – The woman points to the queen while gazing out of frame.

Resa – So Rebecca, I add the thought here that the pointing indicates that Amalia is saying that Queen Eleonora is of rumour and fame?

Rebecca – While the specific meaning of the painting, “Allegory with self-portrait and profile portrait of Ulrika Eleonora the Elder” is open to interpretation, the inclusion of the self-portrait alongside the profile portrait of the queen suggests a significant personal connection between Amalia and Queen Ulrika Eleonora. The portrayal may convey Amalia’s admiration for the queen and her acknowledgment of the queen’s reputation and prominent status. Queen Ulrika Eleonora was renowned for her religious devotion, patience, mild demeanor, and charitable nature, which endeared her to the public. Her modest beauty and dignified presence further enhanced her image as a symbol of hope and lasting peace. Embraced with enthusiasm by the public, she was perceived as a beacon of optimism, and her personal merits bolstered her popularity, solidifying her status as a beloved and influential figure in her time.

Amalia’s Return to Sweden

Following the upheavals and challenges she encountered, Amalia Lewenhaupt eventually journeyed back to Sweden in 1722. Notably, her return to her homeland was accompanied by the fortune-teller Höffern, perhaps seeking guidance and solace after the tumultuous events she had endured.

In 1740, at the age of 76, Amalia Lewenhaupt peacefully passed away in Övedskloster, thereby transcending the trials and tribulations of her lifetime. Her final years were marked by the tranquility of her surroundings, providing a contrast to the tumultuous events she had previously experienced.

Regrettably, Amalia Lewenhaupt’s poignant story was further shadowed by the tragic fate of her firstborn son, Charles Emil Lewenhaupt, who faced condemnation for treason and was ultimately executed in 1743, thus adding another layer of sorrow to her enduring legacy.

Resa –  Rebecca, I can’t thank you enough for being here with me to present Amalia von Königsmarck. It’s somewhat jolting to realize that she was on earth 361 years ago.

Rebecca – Thank you, Resa, for this extraordinary opportunity to collaborate with you on “Making Her Mark”. It is truly fascinating to unravel the multifaceted contributions of remarkable women from past centuries and to witness the enduring impact they have on the world of art and culture. These women have left a profound legacy that continues to inspire and shape our artistic landscape today. By delving into their lives and artistic endeavors, we gain invaluable insights into the richness of history and the enduring influence of these visionary individuals.

Thank you again and again Rebecca!

You can visit Rebecca on Chasing Art! Also for links on the research, just click on the above banner!

John Lennon

On By ResaIn Street Art120 Comments

Several years ago I thought I saw John Lennon’s face painted in a doorway, as the streetcar I rode trundled by at full throttle.

Making a mental note of the area, I vowed to return and find it. Since, I have been in the area quite a few times, but could never find it.

One day last week was the last time I would search for it, having come to believe I dreamt it. Suddenly it was there, obvious for all to see and almost exactly where I thought it would be. Why hadn’t I seen it all those other times?

Thrilled to the point of growing an extra toe, I blathered the whole experience in the first comment I made when back on WP. The victim was Trent from Trent’s World, and I asked him to pick a song.

Trent’s reply the next day:

“Hmm, my first thought was Instant Karma, but I just went back and listened to a few and I think it has to be Mind Games”.

“Even when it was released, it was deemed nostalgic, a feeling that comes across even stronger now. And it has all of the classic Lennon philosophies about peace, love and being positive – “YES is the answer” with that it’s up to the individual to change the world philosophy. “

“Part of the nostalgia is that it has an almost Beatles feel to it while being 100% a Lennon solo work – almost like those two songs from The Beatles Anthology in the 1990s that were Lennon demos finished by the other three, only this is 100 times better. “

“It is also odd (to me) that it is a super simple song musically – the music is just the road John’s ideas ride on to get to their destination. Anyway, “Mind Games” is my pick “

Pics taken by Resa – June 3, 2024

Toronto, Canada

The Artist: Unknown at this time

Thinking about it today, the song is amazingly perfect. After all, the painting had been playing mind games with me for years. I actually came to believe I’d dreamt it. Maybe John is laughing?

🌟 THANK YOU TRENT 🌟

Making Her Mark – Self Portraits I

On By ResaIn Making Her Mark171 Comments

Welcome to the “Making Her Mark” Self Portraits Series! How better can we get to know some of the amazing female artists, from 1400 – 1800, than to introduce them through their own visions of self.

I have invited Rebecca Budd, curator of the online gallery – Chasing Art – to join me in unearthing more of the history of these artists.

Resa: Welcome Rebecca!

Rebecca: – Resa, I was thrilled to receive your invitation to participate in the Self Portraits segments of your “Making Her Mark” virtual event. What better way to begin this journey of discovery than with the artist, Sarah Biffin. I confess this was the first time I heard her name, which can be spelled either Sarah Biffin or Sarah Biffen.

Resa: So Rebecca, now that you’ve heard her name, I’m excited to hear what you have discovered.

The Remarkable Journey of Sarah Biffin

Born with a disability, Sarah Biffin’s remarkable journey from sideshow attraction to an artist patronized by royalty remained little known until recent years. Despite her initial challenges, her early talent blossomed into outstanding artistic ability, leading to recognition and patronage by the aristocracy. Her story serves as a true testament to the transformative power of opportunity and mentorship, showcasing the incredible potential that lies within each individual.

Born on October 25, 1784 in East Quantoxhead, Somerset, Sarah was the third of five children born to Henry Biffin, a farm labourer who later became a shoemaker, and Sarah Perkins. The baptism register noted that Sarah was born with a rare condition known as phocomelia, rendering her without arms or legs. At the age of 25, she was reported to be approximately 3 feet tall.

When she was 20, Sarah was exhibited as an attraction by a travelling showman at fairs throughout England. Even without formal training, crowds were impressed by how she used her mouth to sew, write and paint watercolours and portrait miniatures.

And then…. serendipity smiled and transformed Sarah’s destiny.

Sarah Biffin’s life was undeniably impacted by a twist of fate. It was at the St Bartholomew’s Fair of 1808 that George Douglas, 16th Earl of Morton (1761-1827) noticed her. This serendipitous encounter changed the trajectory of Sarah’s life in a profound and inspiring manner.

His sponsorship of Sarah Biffin, an artist born with a rare disability, enabled her to receive art lessons from renowned painter William Craig of the Royal Academy of Arts. Notably, George Douglas is remembered for his patronage of the arts and his support of individuals with exceptional talent.

As a result of the Earl of Morton’s support, Sarah’s artistic skills developed considerably. By the time she reached her 30s and 40s, she had become an extraordinarily talented artist, often considered to be as good as the best portrait miniaturists of her time. This period marked a significant ascent in her artistic prowess, solidifying her legacy as a remarkable and influential artist.

Patronage, Marriage & Legacy

Sarah’s exceptional artistic talent earned her prestigious commissions, including from the Royal Family, leading to her widespread popularity and acclaim. This royal patronage elevated her status and contributed to her flourishing career as an artist.

On September 6, 1824, Sarah entered into marriage with Stephen Wright in Kilton, Somerset. Despite the eventual end of the marriage, Sarah continued to exhibit under her married name in the years that followed.

Sarah’s influence extended beyond the realm of art, as she was prominently featured in the works of renowned author Charles Dickens. Dickens referenced her in several literary works, including “Nicholas Nickleby,” “Martin Chuzzlewit,” “Little Dorrit,” and “A Plated Article,” underscoring her cultural significance and enduring legacy.

Sarah’s Last Self-Portrait

Resa – Rebecca, what an honour it is to have seen this portrait in real life. I took one close up within the glass free board frame, and one how it was on the wall. It’s a real treat to not have to look through glass. I hope my photography does it justice.

Rebecca – Your photos allowed me to step through the screen and join you virtually at the AGO.  It was as if I were viewing the paintings in person. 

Resa – Rebecca, I am so happy you are here! Thank you for joining me!

Rebecca – Thank you, Resa, for the invitation to join you on this profound “art” journey. I am thrilled to be sharing “Making Her Mark” with you.  Thank you for your extraordinary vision of creativity within our complex, evolving world. You have redefined the art world through your unparalleled leadership, emphasizing compassion and hope as guiding principles. Your profound understanding of art’s transformative power has inspired me and countless individuals, fostering a deeper appreciation for the inherent beauty and significance of artistic expression.

Resa – Thank you, Rebecca! Graciously and humbly.

I hope you all enjoyed this close up feature on Sarah Biffen. A million thank you’s to Rebecca Budd for joining me, with her fabulous research, in this Self Portraits series. Rebecca and I will be back with further instalments highlighting other women who made her mark with art.

Click on the banner above to view some of the site links Rebecca found and used for her research. The Artnet link reveals many of Sarah’s works. Unfortunately none are for sale

Visit Rebecca at CHASING ART! Here you will also find links to her other blogs and Podcast Tea, Toast and Trivia

Photos of Sarah Biffen’s self portrait taken by Resa – May 14, 2024

Art Gallery of Ontario, Toronto, Canada