Figures/Portraits

The pear, for Ms.Vartenigian Burhans, is the more subtle vehicle for her expression and study of human relationship and being while her portraits and figures are a much more direct representation of the same themes. Her continued expression of the elements of being human include givenness and reservedness, connection and isolation, union and otherness, mystery and knowledge. Her figures and faces, generally bound and with eyes averted, do not engage the viewer. They are veiled and introspective which allows the viewer to study not only their physical appearance but also to wonder about what is happening beneath the surface for them. The gaze from one to another is an intimate exchange. It is the prelude moment to the potential for intimacy and understanding in relationship. The viewer is reminded of this even as they alone are looking and seeking to engage.