Seated

This is a literal self-portrait — what one actually sees of oneself when seated at a table. This view from above poses compositional challenges. To solve the problem, I combine actual size with conventional perspective. I painted the real sizes of hands, feet, cat, and objects to harmonise with the sizes of the collaged items (letters, bills, invitation, etc.). This painting is not trompe-l'oeil as described by some critics: if it were photographically realistic, then the feet would be tiny compared to the hands!

- Susan Dorothea White