Nora by James Martin

I am just so in love with this girl.  Or at least the IDEA of what this image represents.  When I look at this drawing, I think of that one girl who most of us have probably run across at some point in our lives.  That mysterious, odd but interesting looking girl you noticed, maybe in your building, or as a cashier at your supermarket, or a waitress at an eatery you frequent.  She just seems so different and more than a little off, but equally fascinating and weirdly attractive.  The kind of girl who seemingly doesn’t care what she puts on, yet every article of clothing she chooses is somehow perfect.  And no matter how disheveled or unkempt her hair is, you would swear it was almost by design.

Martin just captures that idea and attitude brilliantly in this drawing.  Every detail and component from top to bottom lends itself to that ideal image of mystery and irresistible attraction.  Take that silly hat, which (in the most magnificent way) completely and almost deliberately fails to contain her mangy mop of hair.  It looks like some old bellhop cap that I imagine she stumbled upon at a thrift store for a few dollars but once donned, it became a perfect and priceless accessory.  The rag tag shirt that seemingly doesn’t fit right but when you take a second to look again, she’s wearing it exactly as it was meant to be worn.  The glaringly out of place shoes and stockings that no other woman would ever assemble as an outfit but are selected for just that very reason.  And it all works.  Whether conscious or subconscious, the blatant audacity just adds to the mystique and allure.  Somehow it just makes her all the more irresistible.  I for one can’t take my eyes off her.  Anyway, it’s probably one of my favorite drawings that James has ever done.  Easily the favorite of my Martin collection.

Thanks to James for a smooth and pleasant transaction (and for packing the artwork more securely this time, haha).  And thanks to those who stopped by for a peek.  Although I wouldn’t blame any of you for staring.