The Jester and the Harlequin

[SIMON GABRIELOW]

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].

 

 

 

[Lappy]

That is a wonderful composition and the visual effects are icing on the cake! Well done Simon!

[SIMON GABRIELOW]

Thank you Lappy. It is the painting which adds the 'icing'..the music adds the narrative🌝