Big Self-Portrait is an iconic example of Photorealism. It demonstrates the technical virtuosity of the movement and its fascination with the photographic image. It also raises questions about portraiture, identity, and the relationship between painting and photography. While seemingly objective, the scale and detail create an almost unsettling effect.
Born: July 5, 1940, Monroe, Washington, USA
Died: August 19, 2021, Oceanside, New York, USA
Nationality: American
Style: Photorealism, Portraiture
Influences: Photography, Abstract Expressionism, grid systems
Major Exhibitions: "Big Self-Portrait" (1968), "Phil" (1969), "Fanny/Fingerpainting" (1985)
Quote: "I'm interested in the process of making a painting, not just the finished product."
This large-scale, black-and-white painting depicts Close's face in extreme close-up, revealing every pore, wrinkle, and hair with astonishing detail. Close used a grid system to transfer the photographic image to the canvas, working systematically and meticulously.
