Photo By Gail

Abstract, geometric representations of colorful flowers from the rose and carnation families exemplify an interest in floral and decorative patterns in Beatriz Milhazes’ painting, The Carnation and The Rose (2000). The large circular flower in the background is inspired by the delicate lacelike designs of crochet cloths she saw in her grandmother’s home as a child.

The smaller green form is inspired by the “flower from compass“ design method, where overlapping circles and arcs create structured, symmetrical petals. These blooms also evoke the Flower of Life, a geometric pattern symbolizing the circle of life, cosmic order, and interconnectedness.

Milhazes further enhances the composition with vertical stripes set against a vibrant, skyblue background, invoking the rhythmic energy of the 1960’s Op Art movement that also influenced her work. Additionally, the artist employs her monotransfer technique to produce richly textured surfaces on the canvas through the layering and juxtaposition of motifs. This process can lead to the visually dynamic imperfections, as seen in the paint losses within the orange concentric circles and the overlying white rose form.

Photographed in the Guggenheim Museum in New York.