Arrangement in Grey and Black- Whistler's Mother

Even before I could understand what this meant, I always thought the mother depicted in this painting looked just plain tired. I've seen the same expression and demeanor from my own mother after a day's work so as a child I imagined she had 4 lively children who were willful and kept her on the go.

Now, I wonder what she's thinking, what's going on around her, what happened just before she sat for the painting? Then I rationalize with the period of the painting, perhaps she's simply sitting? She can't be tire because that was a time when slaves were still being used to do everyday mundane tasks for their masters. Is she just lazy? What is she focusing on? What is she resting her feet on? Is there a treat wrapped in her kerchief to quiet a squalling child?

I ask these questions to try to connect with James McNeil Whistler and other artist who are now separated from us by an expanse of time and death in an attempt to make the piece more personal and to gain more understanding beyond what critics view as a powerful or simple brush stroke.

This seemed appropriate for today as Mother's everywhere are being honored for being the bringers of life in our world. She is only one of whom I'd love to honor today my own mother is one as well. To say thanks to all and Happy Mother's Day.