Here, we ask an artist to frame the essential details behind one of their latest works.
Bio: Calida Rawles, 48, Los Angeles (@calidagarciarawles)
Title of work: The Parts That Make You Whole (2024).
Where to see it: “Away With the Tides” at Pérez Art Museum Miami (1103 Biscayne Blvd) until Feb. 23, 2025.
Three words to describe it: Ethereal, tender, powerful.
What was on your mind at the time: I wanted to honor time and the tenderness of my subject, Ms. Rolle. Her hands show time. Moments when we sit and let water wash over our feet is such a divine feeling.
An interesting feature that’s not immediately noticeable: At a glance, the two canvases could look like they mirror each other. However, the water is raised at various heights. The water is up to the subject’s knees on the canvas below and just covering the feet on the other. They exemplify the passing of time.
How it reflects your practice as a whole: The piece is hyperrealistic, yet has an abstract nature to it.
One song that captures its essence: “Almeda” by Solange.
Photography by Marten Elder, courtesy of the artist and Lehmann Maupin, New York, Seoul, and London.
