In a Dutch Dream
Artist
John O'Reilly
(American, 1930–2021)
Date1990
MediumPolaroid photomontage
Dimensionsimage: 9.6 x 32 cm (3 3/4 x 12 5/8 in.)
mount: 30.5 x 50.8 cm (12 x 20 in.)
mount: 30.5 x 50.8 cm (12 x 20 in.)
ClassificationsPhotographs
Credit LineEliza S. Paine Fund
Terms
Object number1990.135
Label TextO’Reilly purposefully stages toys and plastic figurines as essential props in many of his photomontages. He stacks and scatters wooden geometric blocks to indicate order or chaos and create surreal effects in scale. Small figures in the right-hand corner of In a Dutch Dream change the viewer’s perspective of the work. Seen from behind, the circus acrobat spreads his arms with dramatic flair. This figurine calls attention to the artifice of O’Reilly’s scene, compelling the viewer to reconsider the veracity of the tableaux he has created.ProvenanceHoward Yezerski Gallery, 186 South Street, Boston, MA 02111On View
Not on view
