As many of you know, I am extraordinarily fond of art that depicts bookish themes.
The only thing better than reading books, is looking at books, and appreciating art
that features books and reading.
Today, I’d like to introduce you to the art of Karen Hollingsworth. I particularly love the way she uses light – and how her work gives you the illusion of a breeze caressing your face.
Here are a few of my favourite works of hers:
Channeling Hemingway
Flying South
Accidental scholar
Beach scholar
Bookish
Gentle reader
Summer reading list
Bedtime story
From the Shain Gallery website:
Karen Hollingsworth is known for her unique light, airy windowscapes. In the past the artist painted interior spaces, now she includes an open window that acts as a portal into the space beyond. Her large oil paintings often depict subject matter that is fairly minimal, chairs and ordinary interior settings, however what attracts many viewers is the mysticism evoked by the movement of the air and the ocean breeze through the curtains.
For Hollingsworth, a painting is about the feeling it evokes. Although there are no figures present in her windowscapes, it is difficult to deny the implications of vacant chairs in such an empty space. Hollingsworth is interested in creating the “impression of looking through that room and seeing the view outside the room.”
“I love to create paintings that evoke a sense of the familiar,” says Hollingsworth. “To blend the common objects of everyday life, placed within the interior of a room, with a glimpse of the ocean or mountains through an open window. My ‘windowscapes’ are intended to provide the viewer with a sense of solitude and well being. A comfortable world bathed in sunlight and warm breezes. For me, a painting is successful if I wish I were there.”
You can reach out to Karen Hollingworth on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Fictionophile 
I love these!
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I love this! My favourite is Accidental Scholar, that cat looks a lot like mine 😄
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Lucky you. 🐾 It would be nice if you could get a print of that one.
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It would! I’ll have to look into that!
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These are beautiful 🙂 Scrolling through the pictures and immediately my heart is lightened – her deftness of touch with those softly blowing curtains is so restful.
I like them all but my favourite has to be Accidental Scholar! I have a cat who can flatten himself like that!
🙂 🐱
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Please share more photos of your cat Sandra. I would love to see your ‘Accidental Scholar’. ♥
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Very nice. It feels like sitting out in the summer on a porch or deck with my favourite books.
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I agree Carla. You can almost feel the breeze and smell the salty water.
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Amazing ❤
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So glad you liked them Annie. 😘
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Yes I do like the breezy image of the curtains, there is a kind of familiar warmth. I also sense the solitude of the empty chair and the open books, with a steaming cup in another.. It gives me the impression of the person being disturbed to go and answer the door or telephone. Certainly the images prompt imagination.
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Well said James. I completely agree. 😊
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Lynne, I’m an instant fan of Karen’s paintings! These are wonderful and I agree wholeheartedly with her words – she succeeds on all accounts”‘ …a sense of solitude and well being. A comfortable world bathed in sunlight and warm breezes.’ I’d nab the cosy seat in front of the bay window … but possibly turn the seat around and look out at the glorious view. Lovely post – a visual treat!
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Thanks Annika. ❤ I love her work and I’m SO pleased that you share my enthusiasm for it. Also, visual treats are calorie free!
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