All the Delight in the World
A swan stands, feet pressed to the moist ground, surrounded by abundant blooms. As if seeking light, the roses push through the plane of the canvas, which is defined by a rusting metal cage. The swan gazes curiously, with soft neck encircling a bar.
We are beset with longing to own the delights of the world, the swans and roses, the stuff of greeting cards, figurines and fairytales.
These treasures can’t tumble out, and we can’t creep in. Perhaps it is we who are caged : we can look at this world, but it is forever inaccessible. That is the conundrum of a painting.