Mark Leonard

GOLDEN RECTANGLES: NARCISSUS

2018
gouache and synthetic resin on panel
12 x 16 inches

This painting is from a series of works that are based upon the proportions of the golden rectangle—a rectangle whose side lengths are in the golden ratio, a mathematical concept that has been understood since ancient times. This procedure can be repeated infinitely, and such natural occurrences as the golden spiral of a Nautilus shell reflect the underlying mathematical concept. Golden rectangles are thought to be especially pleasing to the eye because of their close relationship to nature. This compositional format also lends itself to abstract interpretations of Greek myths—in this case the story of Narcissus, who fell in love with a reflection of himself in a pool of water, resulting in tragic consequences—although in his place a flower sprouted which now bears his name. — Mark Leonard

Palm Springs-based painter Mark Leonard trained as an artist before deciding to pursue a career as a paintings restorer. He earned a multi-disciplinary Bachelor’s degree in Studio Art, Art History, and Chemistry from Oberlin College, and a Master’s in Art History from the Institute of Fine Arts, New York University. Leonard first worked as a restorer for The Metropolitan Museum of Art before spending twenty-six years at The J. Paul Getty Museum, with 12 of those years as the Head of Paintings Conservation. In 2012 he was invited to become the first Chief Conservator at the Dallas Museum of Art, where he built a new conservation studio and expanded the department. In 2017, he returned to working full-time as an independent artist.

[excerpted from Louis Stern Fine Arts website: www.louissternfinearts.com]

estimated retail value: $4,000

The TWO x TWO AUCTION will take place at The Rachofsky House on Saturday, October 19, 2024. Absentee bids must be received no later than 5:00 p.m. on Friday, October 18, 2024. If you are unable to attend TWO x TWO for AIDS and Art on Saturday, October 19, and would like to place a bid on a live or silent auction lot, you may complete the appropriate absentee bidding fields below. A TWO x TWO auction representative can bid on your behalf up to your pre-set maximum bid. If the work is part of the live auction, you may also be on the phone with an auction representative to place your bids during the live auction.

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