“National Rest” by Robert A. Carlson, Large Realist Oil Painting

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“National Rest,” a large oil painting of the restroom waiting area inside the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C. … Read more “National Rest,” a large oil painting of the restroom waiting area inside the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C. Two phone booths stand at the center against a deep blue-black wall. In one, an older woman in a green dress talks on the phone; in the other, a woman in blue sits with her head bowed. In the foreground, a man in glasses reads an open newspaper on an upholstered bench, while a dark-haired woman behind him looks off to the side. Drinking fountains and signs for the women’s and men’s rooms frame the scene on either side.

The palette sets warm ochre and golden walls against the cool, dark center, with blues and greens in the figures’ clothing. The mood recalls Edward Hopper: strangers sharing a public space, each absorbed in a private moment.

Oil on stretched canvas, signed lower right. Presented in a simple natural wood strip frame. Acquired directly from the artist. Painted in the late 20th century.

The artist, Robert (Bob) Carlson (American; M.F.A., Catholic University), has exhibited for more than 40 years in Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, D.C. His work is held in collections including the NIH Clinical Center and the Bureau of Labor Statistics. See less