Figurative Abstract: The Multifaceted Artistry and a Visionary Art of Wendy McNally
by Viviana Puello.
Venturing into the artistic realm of Wendy McNally is to step into a vortex of passionate abstraction and figurative storytelling. Her artworks embody a unique synthesis of enthusiasm and precision as she deploys passionate aggression in her creative process to reach the pinnacle of expressive satisfaction. The canvas becomes a battleground where composition, color, and the speed of execution dance in a compelling ballet of brushstrokes, ultimately leading to a finished product that resonates with both the artist and the viewer.
“Untitled” Acrylic Paint on Cotton Canvas by Wendy McNally.
McNally’s portfolio is a testament to the power of art to evoke raw emotion and intellectual engagement. Her style, described as figurative abstract, is an intriguing paradox that bridges two often distinct art forms. It’s in this rare confluence that one finds the true genius of McNally’s work: the ability to abstractly represent the human figure in a way that captures the complexities of the human condition. Each piece tells a story, not through explicit narrative but through the expressive power of abstract forms and the human figure’s suggestive contours.
Wendy McNally, Self Portrait Photograph.
“Dancers” Acrylic Paint on Linen by Wendy McNally.
Take, for instance, her depiction of the human form in works like ‘Untitled’ and ‘Dancers.’ Here, McNally manipulates the canvas with both a boldness and a subtlety that is mesmerizing. The figures are rendered with a particular geometric abstraction, yet there is no mistaking the dynamic human presence that commands the space. It’s a dichotomy that is thought-provoking and enchanting, inviting the viewer to linger in contemplation.
“Chernobyl Baby” Carved Stoneware and Cloth by Wendy McNally.
In her piece titled ‘Chernobyl Baby,’ McNally ventures into a multidimensional space that fuses carved stoneware and cloth. This choice of materials speaks volumes of her ability to blend different textures and mediums to tell a poignant story that echoes the disaster’s haunting legacy. It’s an artwork that transcends mere visual appreciation, becoming a sensory experience that stirs the soul and invokes empathy.
McNally’s self-portrait photographs, too, offer a glimpse into the artist’s psyche. They are self-reflective pieces that challenge the viewer to see beyond the surface. They act as mirrors, reflecting not just the artist’s image but also the viewer’s internal response to the art. It’s this interactive element that makes her work so riveting and personal.
Her collection is an open invitation for viewers to engage with her art on a sensory and emotional level, promising a transformative experience. McNally’s work is not merely to be seen but to be felt, offering a journey through the emotional spectrum of humanity. Viewers are encouraged to visit her collection and engage with the profound dialogue it initiates.
Viviana Puello
Editor-in-Chief
