Working Girl

In this work I sought to capture a moment of quiet contemplation and intimacy. Inspired by the works of the American artist Edward Hopper, I endeavoured to convey the interplay of light and shadow, as well as the emotional depth of a seemingly mundane scene.
At the heart of this composition is a woman, poised in front of a magnificent Art Deco fireplace, bathed in the soft, golden light of the morning sun. The curvature of the fireplace forms a harmonious backdrop, echoing the elegance and sophistication of the Art Deco era, a time known for its exquisite design and architectural beauty.
As she sits on the edge of a plush, period-appropriate chair, the woman epitomises the timeless beauty and strength of femininity. Her posture exudes a quiet confidence and grace, a silent testimony to the resilience of women in their daily lives. She is the embodiment of routine and resilience, facing the day with determination.
Beside her, her faithful canine companion rests comfortably on the hearth, absorbing the warmth of the fire. The dog's presence adds an element of companionship and loyalty to the scene, reinforcing the idea that even in solitude, we are never truly alone.
The woman's actions reveal a moment of transition from the comfort of home to the demands of the external world. She is in the process of putting on her shoes, a ritual that symbolises preparation and readiness for the day ahead. In this simple act, I aimed to capture the significance of daily routines and the courage it takes to confront the challenges outside the sanctuary of one's home.
This work invites the viewer to reflect on the intersection of the ordinary and the extraordinary. It speaks to the enduring strength and beauty found in the everyday lives of women, reminding us that even in the most routine moments, there is artistry and significance waiting to be discovered. Through the lens of Art Deco aesthetics and the influence of Edward Hopper's work, this painting celebrates the quiet, yet profound, moments that define our lives.

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John Klein is a contemporary Australian artist who has been engaged in creative pursuits his entire career. His love for the visual arts has seen him drawn to the mediums of film, photography and painting. He has been a finalist in a number of prestigious art prizes including the Mosman, Kennedy and Gallipoli to name a few.

John enjoys collecting various objects which often become the subject matter for his unique still life paintings. He is an avid gardener which is also reflected throughout his floral subjects.

“I have been collecting vases and other objet d’art for the last thirty years. I am most interested in the designs from the arts and crafts, art nouveau and art deco periods, and these appear regularly in my paintings. Some of the vases I own and others I covet. My gardening interest was encouraged by my father, who was also an artist and trained under the legendary Rayner Hoff at East Sydney Technical College (now the National Art School) in the 1930s.”

Whilst sometimes appearing decorative in nature, art collectors readily engage with John’s work through the deeper commentary on significant craftsmanship and tradition. John seeks to document and highlight a discussion about both quality design in our everyday utilitarian items, along with the restorative force of the bloom – a life force in nature.

His paintings are held in private collections in Italy, France, Germany, USA, United Kingdom and throughout Australia.

John has completed numerous commissions and enjoys collaborating with clients to bring their vision to life. He has painted many pet portraits and would love to imortalise you fur baby in a commissioned painting.

He has recently expanded his practice to include surface design and his work can now be seen on a diverse range of products including scarves, cushions and bags.