Theorem Apple Painting Signed by Pennsylvania Artist

It takes a special brush stroke of whimsy to paint on velvet and this style of painting is know as theorem. The Theorem stencil also referred to as “theorem painting” is the art of constructing stencils and using them to create drawings or paintings on fabric but rarely used on paper. The contemporary artist (S. Gibson) decided to choose apples as a theme in this realistic, bold, fun and colorful painting.

Theorem painting was born in England during the turn of the 18th century. This art was first taught to women in boarding schools throughout colonial New England and continued into the mid 1800’s in many other areas. Using a multitude of stencil overlays and designs that are three dimensional and constitute a primitive form the artist could accomplish a showy design that was then mounted after completion. Themes included foods, scenes and symbols that were popular in the artists area.

The colors in this gorgeous painting are strong and quite delicious…..just like the pair of apples she created lazily hanging from a branch and almost ready for harvest. Gibson also decided to incorporate clusters of strawberries that appear in the background sporting large realistic leaves while cascading white flowers dotted with a buttercup yellow center enhance this scene. Being an artist myself, I can certainly appreciate the detail, color values and subject matter Gibson choose and commend her for the talent and exceptional work she brought forth!

The sponge painted frame revealing vibrant color hues of midnight black and deep sorrel red really enhance the painting by enabling it to be a focal point that draws you in. The frame does have a tiny chip located on the top edge as shown in image 11 and there are also a couple areas of light specks on the left side of the frame near the bottom as shown in image 9. The rest of the glazed frame is free of any chips and there are no cracks to report.

There is a little story about theorem painting on the back of the frame as well as a sticker from “The Pennsylvania Guild of Craftsman, Juried Member” that indicates this piece has exceptional qualities and deserves high recognition. Even though this piece is signed there is no date.

This beautiful theorem will grace any wall in style by adding color and interest. You can also lean this piece up on a table and create a vignette nearby that could include fresh apples displayed in a wooden bowl along with stoneware apple butter crocks or even add an old apple peeler. Apple butter jars would also look great as well and you can even dry apple slices that can be placed in a bowl laced with fragrant cinnamon sticks. I know you are going to really enjoy this beautiful theorem painting for years to come and don’t be surprised how many compliments you will receive! Enjoy!

Theorem stands 10” tall, measures 8” across and is ¾” thick (deep).