Rebecca Szeto’s “Paintbrush Portraits” series is a profound exploration of the intersection between tool and artwork, where the humble paintbrush transcends its traditional role. Through meticulous carving and painting, Szeto transforms worn paintbrushes into elegant figures, each with its own story and character.
This ongoing series, which began in 1999, is not only a testament to Szeto’s skill and creativity but also a commentary on beauty, value, and the re-purposing of materials. Her work pays homage to the Old Masters while simultaneously engaging in a modern dialogue about gender, class, and labor. The paintbrushes, acting as both subject and object, invite viewers to reflect on the ordinary and find profundity in the overlooked.
