Lemons White Pedestal No. 1 Contemporary Still Life Painting

Details

Description

Lemons White Pedestal No. 1 is my contemporary interpretation of the classic fruit still life, featuring bright yellow lemons arranged … Read more Lemons White Pedestal No. 1 is my contemporary interpretation of the classic fruit still life, featuring bright yellow lemons arranged atop a white pedestal. Traditionally, this subject matter would be approached through careful realism, but I wanted to reinterpret it through a more modern lens, using layered paint applications and saturated color to create a fresh, painterly sensibility.
Lemons have long been a favorite subject of still-life painters because of their sculptural forms and vibrant color. I was drawn to the way their textured skin catches and reflects light, creating subtle variations of yellow and cream.
The white pedestal is rendered as a luminous silhouette, inspired by classic serving pieces, while simplified into a contemporary outline. Its glowing presence provides a sense of structure and elegance, balancing the organic forms of the fruit above.
The palette intentionally moves beyond strict naturalism. Acid greens, bright citrus yellows, and soft periwinkle blues create a lively, optimistic atmosphere. The contrast between the saturated fruit and the glowing white pedestal allows the composition to bridge traditional still-life painting with a more modern, pop-inspired aesthetic.

Specifications
• Type: Original painting, one of one
• Medium: Spray paint and white ink on bristol paper
• Year: 2026
• Artist: Susan Havens
• Size: 24" x 18" - includes a 1.5" white border
• Color Palette: Citrus Yellow, Green, Periwinkle Blue, and White

––– Artist Bio ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
Susan Havens is a New Orleans–based artist who holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. With over 27 years of experience as a graphic designer, art director, and creative director, her work reflects a refined understanding of composition, color, and visual storytelling.
Her artwork is held in private collections and has been placed in residences, private clubs, and hospitality environments by interior designers, as well as featured at the Ogden Museum of Southern Art in New Orleans. See less