Gottfried Helnwein Austria, b. 1948
Head of a Child 15 (Molly), 2012
Oil and acrylic on canvas
250 x 166 cm
98 3/8 x 65 3/8 in
98 3/8 x 65 3/8 in
© 2012 Gottfried Helnwein / Courtesy Fundación AMMA
Photo: Sergio Ortiz
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An extreme close-up portrait of a little girl. It conveys a deep sense of sorrow. Perhaps she is about to cry. The hyperrealism—particularly evident in the details of her hair—and the cool tones reinforce the strong sense of sadness.
The betrayal of childhood innocence has been the central theme of Gottfried Helwein’s work since his earliest paintings. In childhood, he sees the full potential of human values and virtues—trust, love, compassion, and creativity—all of which are susceptible to betrayal.
The betrayal of childhood innocence has been the central theme of Gottfried Helwein’s work since his earliest paintings. In childhood, he sees the full potential of human values and virtues—trust, love, compassion, and creativity—all of which are susceptible to betrayal.