Many Togethers: Inspired by Vermeer’s “Girl With a Pearl Earring” and Illustrator Ana Juan, by Nadia Daniels-Moehle. 2018. Graphite and gouache on paper.
Combining the art of two creators never fails to stimulate my “creative juices.” Actually, I find some of my most inspired and creatively expansive moments while digging into the stories and styles of other artists. Today, I studied Johannes Vermeer’s “Girl With a Pearl Earring” in a style inspired by illustrator Ana Juan. These artists came into my life because of “children’s” books.
Blue Balliett’s Chasing Vermeer (WorldCat / Bookshop) is probably responsible for my art history craving, and it introduced me to Vermeer. Chasing Vermeer is the first book in a series that dives headfirst into the art world, making art history mysterious, current, and suspenseful. Thanks to Balliett, Vermeer’s “Girl With a Pearl Earring” has intrigued me since the wee age of about nine.
Ana Juan came into my life when I read Catherynne M. Valente’s The Girl Who Circumnavigated Fairyland in a Ship of Her Own Making (WorldCat / Bookshop). I’m smitten with Juan’s work. It’s powerful, dark, sensual, intricate, and just the right amount of wacky. Please take some time to check out her delectable website: the adventure awaits.
120 days done, 245 to go.