A Masterpiece Unveiled: Gertrude Abercrombie’s “Where or When (Things Past)” Takes Center Stage

Gertrude Abercrombie’s “Where or When (Things Past)”, an oil painting owned by the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art (MMOCA), has been transported to the Carnegie Museum of Art in Pittsburgh for an extraordinary exhibition. This 1948 masterpiece is not only a stunning representation of Abercrombie’s unique style but also a testament to her innovative approach to art. The painting, featuring a self-portrait of Abercrombie, is a prime example of the artist’s utilization of surrealism and magic realism to imbue everyday images with mystery and intrigue. The inclusion of eggs, cats, and owls, among other objects, lends a sense of enchantment to the piece, drawing the viewer into a world of wonder and curiosity.

The Artist’s Vision and Inspiration

Gertrude Abercrombie was a leading figure in Chicago’s Hyde Park scene in the late 20th century, renowned for her captivating paintings of interiors, landscapes, and still lifes. Her works were often inspired by dreams and her own psychology as an artist, reflecting her unique perspective on the world.

• Abercrombie’s art often featured muted colors, which added to the sense of mystery and intrigue in her paintings.
• The artist’s use of surrealism and magic realism allowed her to tap into the subconscious mind, creating a world of wonder and enchantment.
• Abercrombie’s work was deeply personal, reflecting her own thoughts, feelings, and experiences as an artist.

The Exhibition and Loan

The “Gertrude Abercrombie: The Whole World is a Mystery” exhibition at the Carnegie Museum of Art in Pittsburgh is a landmark event, featuring over 80 paintings by the artist. This exhibition is the most comprehensive showing of Abercrombie’s work to date, offering a unique opportunity for viewers to experience her art in a new and exciting way.

Exhibition Details	Exhibition Location	Exhibition Dates
Carnegie Museum of Art	Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania	February 2024 – May 2024

A Vogue Feature

Gertrude Abercrombie’s “Where or When (Things Past)” has been highlighted in an article in the current issue of Vogue magazine. The image of the painting, along with an accompanying article, provides a unique insight into the artist’s work and inspiration.

“In a world where reality is often obscured by the mundane, Abercrombie’s art offers a respite, a glimpse into a world of wonder and enchantment. Her use of surrealism and magic realism creates a sense of mystery, drawing the viewer into a world of dreams and imagination.”

A Home for the Artwork

The 1948 oil painting is currently housed at the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art (MMOCA), as part of its permanent collection, which consists of over 6,000 artworks. MMOCA occasionally loans pieces from its permanent collection to other institutions for display or research purposes.

Loan Period

Abercrombie’s “Where or When (Things Past)” is on loan to the Carnegie Museum of Art in Pittsburgh for a period of six months.

Exhibition Dates

The exhibition “Gertrude Abercrombie: The Whole World is a Mystery” will run from February 2024 to May 2024.

A New Home for the Painting

The painting has been transported to the Carnegie Museum of Art in Pittsburgh, where it will be displayed as part of the “Gertrude Abercrombie: The Whole World is a Mystery” exhibition. The exhibition is a testament to Abercrombie’s innovative approach to art, and the painting’s new home is a fitting tribute to her unique style and vision.

Highlights of the Exhibition

The exhibition features over 80 paintings by Abercrombie, showcasing her unique style and vision. Some highlights of the exhibition include:

• Abercrombie’s “The Whole World is a Mystery”, a 1948 painting featuring a self-portrait of the artist.
• Abercrombie’s “The Yellow House”, a 1960s painting featuring a domestic interior.
• Abercrombie’s “The Cat”, a 1970s painting featuring a feline subject.

Visiting the Exhibition

Visitors to the exhibition can expect a unique and immersive experience, with over 80 paintings on display. The exhibition is a must-see for fans of Abercrombie’s work, offering a rare opportunity to experience her art in a new and exciting way. Stay tuned for updates on the exhibition and Abercrombie’s work, as we continue to bring you the latest news and information.

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