Touch-Up

Artist Burr Singer (1912 - 1992)

Date1943

MediumOil on board

Dimensions22 1/2 x 16 1/2 in. (57.2 x 41.9 cm)

ClassificationsPainting

Credit LineThe Hilbert Collection

Object numberSin-1

DescriptionBernice Lee Singer, known by her nickname "Burr," was a St. Louis-born artist who was known for her figurative paintings and Social Realist subject matter -- a type of art that focused on social issues and the reality of life in the working classes. After studying art in St. Louis, Chicago and New York, Singer moved to Taos, New Mexico for several years, and then to Los Angeles in the 1930s, where she joined the California Water Color Society.

Singer, who was white, was perhaps best known for her realistic portrayals of African Americans during a time (the 1930s and '40s) when many other artists were portraying black subjects as caricatures or stereotypes. She frequented the famous jazz clubs of South Central Los Angeles, where black and white audiences mingled, and captured evocative portraits of people she saw there, especially focusing on subjects she saw as having depth and character.

This woman, framed by her halo-like red hat and elaborately ruffled collar, is taking a break from the jazzy, jitterbugging action behind her to touch up her lips with a color that matches her brilliant outfit, using a small compact mirror she's removed from her evening bag. She's a bright center of calm in the musical storm, and while you're certain she'll wade right back into the dancing once this brief touch-up is done, you enjoy looking at her while she pauses. We'd love to go out on the town with her -- how about you?

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