<< < >
Cory
Historically, the handicapped have been victims of ridicule and some artists depictions have demonstrated this plight.
Here, instead of highlighting Cory's difficulties, he is schizophrenic and has leukemia; the focus is on bringing about a sense of connection. Rather than observing, resisting or avoiding Cory and his world we are invited in. Cory, who was a part time employee for the artist at the time, and she therefore one of his bosses, sat for the portrait in his bedroom and the expression on his face is not one of formality but of openness and comfort. Since he doesn’t look extreme, the portrait plays on our awareness of normality versus vulnerability.
Here, instead of highlighting Cory's difficulties, he is schizophrenic and has leukemia; the focus is on bringing about a sense of connection. Rather than observing, resisting or avoiding Cory and his world we are invited in. Cory, who was a part time employee for the artist at the time, and she therefore one of his bosses, sat for the portrait in his bedroom and the expression on his face is not one of formality but of openness and comfort. Since he doesn’t look extreme, the portrait plays on our awareness of normality versus vulnerability.