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Martina Clarke
The Absolution
Oil on canvas
'The Absolution' is a study of a marble bust created by Sarah Bernhardt in 1880. The bust references the story of Hamlet by depicting Ophelia in her moments before drowning.
Martina Clarke reinterprets the tragic story of Ophelia into one of cosmic explosion, forgiveness, lust and feminine power. Subverting the tones of insanity into a powerful motif of strength and liberation.
Her clothes spread wide;
And, mermaid-like, awhile they bore her up:
Which time she chanted snatches of old tunes;
As one incapable of her own distress,
Or like a creature native and indued
Unto that element: but long it could not be
Till that her garments, heavy with their drink,
Pull'd the poor wretch from her melodious lay
To muddy death.
—Hamlet, Act IV, Scene VII
Size: 36 × 36 cm
Images and dimensions of artwork have been supplied to the organiser directly from the artist. Although we have taken all care to check dimensions and image representation, The Doyles Art Awards (the Organiser) takes no responsibility for any variations to colour accuracy or size details. The sizing displayed is based on external width or height including any frame or mount, primarily for shipping purposes. If you need to view the artwork in its frame, or have the size checked for a specific hanging space, please email marketing@thedoylesaward.com.au or visit the exhibition in person.
Artworks will be shipped within 3 working days of exhibition close.
Method of shipment is through Aramex Courier Services road freight services.
We currently ship to Australian locations only. We cannot deliver to PO Boxes.
No returns, refunds or exchanges of artwork will be permitted.
The Doyles (d’Arcy Doyle Art Awards Ltd) is not liable for any products damaged or lost during handling or shipping. The Doyles Art Awards recommends purchasers arrange transit insurance specifically for artworks.
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