Icon of Art by Pamela C. Newell

Icon of Art, oil painting on linen panel by Pamela Newell.
Image: 9x12" Presented in a closed corner wide dark frame with an inner gold fillet (Framed to 14.5x18").

About this artwork:
There are two bronze lions that flank the Art Institute of Chicago's Michigan Avenue entrance. They were made by Edward Kemeys for the opening of the museum in 1893. They have stood at the entrance of the museum since its inaugural year. 

The lion's were a gift  from Mrs. Henry Field. They have unofficial "names" given them by their sculptor. They are not identical and are named for their poses. The south lion "stands in an attitude of defiance," while the north lion is "on the prowl." 

This painting depicts the south lion - one of the most photographed icons in Chicago. The Art Institute has been a favorite destination for Pamela Newell since she was a child, and she says, "It always inspires. I just had to paint this majestic sculpture."

~ The south lion stands in an attitude of defiance!