"Woman Reading a Bible" by Miriam McClung, 1957. Oil on canvas. 42" x 50". Reserved.
"Woman Reading a Bible" by Miriam McClung, 1957. Oil on canvas. 42" x 50". Reserved.

Transitions 4: State of Mind

We’re continuing to explore Miriam’s work through the lens of transition: This abstract piece was done from a scene at the Bryce Hospital (Alabama Insane Hospital) in Northport, Alabama where Miriam attended a Sunday School class her senior year in college at the University of Alabama.

The woman depicted would sit and read her bible despite all the chaotic moments around her. She did not speak but wore bright-colored clothing. You can see the transition in the painting from the discordant, dark, troubled colors on the left side of the painting to the woman’s hopeful colors despite dealing with mental health issues. A window full of light is on the right upper part of the painting.

——–

Miriam McClung is an artist from Birmingham, Alabama, and has been creating works of art in oils, pastels, ink, charcoal, pencil and everything in between for over 70 years. You can follow her on her Instagram account @miriammcclungart.