This descriptive work was inspired by a very personal connection to the Artist [ a stunning picture] representing, in bright bold design, a Harlequin and Jester against a patterned background. The Artist was my Mother [ Betty Gabrielow] then [ Betty Lee at the time picture was made in about 1959]. She was not yet even 30 years of age when it was painted.
It is in Poster colours [the old type of water based paints] on paper about 24 by 30 ins size [ approx]. A bold and very original image as you can see.
The picture is now in permanent collection of York Art Gallery. She was also a general nurse [ psychiatric nurse] helping others in and out of her career. She loved theatre, and had a very original vision in her at - and a tremendous sense of humour.
Betty did take primitive piano lessons herself, but by her own admission, could not play piano; she used to go and buy an ice-cream instead, when she should have attended her piano classes [ she would tell me with a smile!].. [ she always woud like to have played a 'flute' she often told me - but she was very eager to ask questions about musical things [to me].
My tune has the two characters, each with their own theme, portrayed on solo melodic line, The Harlequin is slower tune, whilst the Jester hops into place with a mischievous melody here and there. [ film/ performance : made in 2023].