Ekphrasis

Bars are a great environment to study the behavior of people. When someone has a cocktail or two, they let their guard down and reveal a side of themselves that they wouldn’t in any other situation.

There are many types of Bars in New York City, and each one offers a micro environment for people of varying desires and aspirations. This portrait happens to be set in a bar with a reputation for high-end deal-making.

John Varriano presents us with a well-dressed gentleman who is in the act of making a point to some fellow investors. One might say that he is pontificating, thus the Latinized name for the painting. Because his fellow businessmen are outside of the scope of the scene, we feel as though the protagonist is actually speaking directly to us.

His impeccable suit, bow-tie and matching handkerchief give a hint of his Ivy League status. He is clearly well groomed with sparkling glasses and nicely combed hair. That pointing finger and open mouth let us know that he is passionate about his ideas. His left hand is hanging comfortably from the bar, and we get the sense that just a few moments ago his back was turned and he has just spun around rapidly to engage the crowd with his brilliant thoughts. He is clearly very much at home here.

Varriano’s insight into body and facial language is on full display. Despite the gravity of the moment though, there is something just a little bit comical about this fellow. Can we trust him, or believe what he is saying? His right hand is revealing some thoughts, but the left hand is comfortably holding something back. He might just as well be a card sharp or a magician with vanishing cards in those hands.

The bartender in the background, who knows this man well, has a slight grin on his face as though he understands his client’s routine, or as it is said in New York City, Schtik.  If the deal goes well, he stands to get a nice fat tip. In this respect, every good bartender is like a silent partner, looking out for the best interests of their customers.

The paint is handled with exceptional craftsmanship, with a soft, blended realism. The face is brilliant in the way the artist captures the moment, and the hands are beautifully rendered. There is an outstanding balance of tone, lighting, and cool and warm colors.  The painting is a masterful work of art.