I was introduced to the artwork of Mary Cassatt while attending Brigham Young University. Mary's intriguing life story along with her many beautiful portraits have always captured my interest.
Mary was born in the 1840's to a family of high social standing. She was given opportunities for education which enriched her life. Many women in her day were discouraged from pursing careers. Her father did not approve of her desire to become a painter. This led Mary to sign many of her famous works by the name of Mary Stevenson. Although she faced many obstacles in her life, Mary showed great courage and determination to improve her skills as a painter, even if it meant for her to go against the will of her father. She studied and painted in Spain, Rome and Belgium then permanently made her home in Paris. Mary spent her life painting until she became very ill which lead her to blindness.
Mary was an impressionist artist. While many impressionists focused on painting landscapes, she is famous for her portraits especially those with women and children. This is the reason I am drawn to her art. She captures in such beautiful ways the everyday, household work of women. The ability to capture such intimate moments brought her the most happiness and pleasure in life. Below are some of my favorite portraits by Mary Cassatt (courtesy of http://www.marycassatt.org/).
I am emotionally drawn to this one. It reminds me of the precious months I cared for my sick little Sarah. The mother, wearing black seems somewhat solemn. The little girl wearing pure white appears ill with flushed cheeks, but finds comfort in her mother's arms.
I hope to purchase a print of one of these portraits for the baby's nursery. It will serve as a reminder of the sacred calling of motherhood and the gift I have been given to mother five of Heavenly Father's children.
