Nelma
Anonymous or Nelma
Found 03/2007, Salvation Army (183 and McNeil)

The full title of this piece is unknown, as the name was defaced by the creator or Salvation Army staff, leaving only “Nelma.” It is unknown if this is the artist’s name or the name of the subject, our staff calls the piece “The Nelma.”

A Greek name, “Nelma” suggests shining and light, which is reflected in the pale colors of the image. The motion of the wind in Nelma and the bountiful crop of periwinkles suggest a springtime setting for this piece, appropriate to the youthful appearance of the subject, and the bounty suggested by both subject and season is underscored by the choice of a plate as artistic medium. What other medium, short of a bare canvas, suggests potential so strongly?