#PhxArtLove Languages

Jul, 29, 2020

Art

#PhxArtLove Languages

Summer lovin’ at PhxArt is officially in full swing thanks to these artworks from our collection that remind us of the five languages of love, as outlined in Gary Chapman’s 1992 self-help guide, The 5 Love Languages: The Secret to Love That Lasts. As you scroll and discover the various ways that human beings can give and receive love, consider the following questions:

• What does “love” mean to you?
• How do you like to show your friends and family that you care for them?
• Does the way you express your love change from person to person?
• How do you know if someone loves you? What words or actions do they use?

Words of Affirmation

Sometimes, all we need to hear are some kind and encouraging words to let us know we matter.

The Old Philosopher (1645-1650) by Salomon Koninck

In this 17^th-century painting, the subject is sharpening his quill to get down to some serious writing. And although the artist identifies his muse as an old philosopher, we like to think this elderly man knows that the key to someone’s heart is a beautifully crafted love letter.

Letters from Overseas (1943) by Thomas Hart Benton

This World War II-era lithograph reminds us how words, when delivered across thousands of miles, have the power to keep the flame of affection alight even when we’re apart.

Quality Time

A little focused attention goes a long way to creating a sense of togetherness that can help love bloom.

Emperor and Empress (late-19^th – early-20^th century), Japan

This Japanese woodblock print proves that sometimes, the best part of being in love is just being near each other, whether it’s for Netflix and Uber Eats, or the late 19^th-century equivalent—boat watching.

Diego Rivera, Tres Mujeres en Xochimilco (Three Women in Xochimilco), 1939. Watercolor. Gift of Mr. & Mrs. Edgar Higgins. © 2020 Banco de México Diego Rivera Frida Kahlo Museums Trust, Mexico, D.F. / Artists Rights Society (ARS), New York.

Tres Mujeres en Xochimilco (Three Women in Xochimilco) (1939) by Diego Rivera

Here, Rivera shows us that quiet moments with those we care for can nourish the soul beyond measure.

Receiving Gifts

A thoughtful present might just be the physical symbol of love they need to know your love is true.

Gift Bearers (1971) by Philip C. Curtis

This painting proves that perhaps the best way to show you care is a well-timed, gift-wrapped box delivered in your Sunday best.

Edouard Vuillard, Madame Lucy Hessel Working at a Dressmaker’s Table (Señora Lucy Hessel trabajando en la mesa de costurera), 1908. Oil on cardboard. Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Donald D. Harrington. © 2020 Artists Rights Society (ARS), New York.

Madame Lucy Hessel Working at a Dressmaker’s Table (1908) by Edouard Vuillard

We know what you’re thinking. Where’s the gift in this one? But for this 20^th-century painting, featuring a woman quietly working at her dressmaker’s table, we like to imagine there’s a thoughtful significant other behind the scenes who knew that the way to any creative introvert’s heart is the gift of time alone.

Acts of Service

From making the bed to cooking dinner to offering an airport pick-up, a helping hand can be a sure sign of caring and commitment.

Luis Jimenez, Untitled (homage to Louis Carlos Bernal) (Sin título [homenaje a Louis Carlos Bernal]), 1972. Stone lithograph. Gift of Roxanne Malone and James Enyeart. © 2020 Artists Rights Society (ARS), New York.

Untitled (Homage to Louis Carlos Bernal) (1972) by Luis Jimenez

With this moving work, we’re reminded that often times, just being that someone to lean on when a loved one is feeling vulnerable is the best way to show you have their back.

St. George and the Dragon (1911 or later) by John Dickson Batten

This early 20^th-century painting takes acts of service to a whole new level, with a #nochill knight in shining armor who has slain a full-blown dragon for his beloved.

Physical Touch

So much can be said with a soft caress, a pat on the back, or a long embrace.

Oui! Oui! C’est entendu (Yes! Yes! It’s understood) (1839) by Honore Daumier

This 1839 French lithograph captures the powerful moment when one knows they’ve been heard, listened to, and understood, simply from a single touch.

Bacchus and Ariadne (1820) by Antoine-Jean Gros

In this depiction of Bacchus, Roman god of wine and all things festive, and Ariadne, goddess of passion (and…mazes?), we learn that they are more than two beauties dressed in high thread-count togas. They are two hearts, beating as one.