This darker, more mysterious artwork is a tribute to the various leg and glute exercises employed using a ballet barre. The golden figure shows a progression from floor work, to standing and leaning poses, to pushups. The “barre” itself is not actually visible, but implied in the hand positions of the upright poses.

Barre artist Caron Shahrestani painted this piece during spring 2015. In the habit of painting indoors, she painted this canvas on her porch during a dry California afternoon. Hence, the backdrop seems almost ominous when hung indoors without supportive lighting. When held in natural light or even direct sunlight, however, the painting shows a stunning array of colors.

One of the attributes that makes this piece unique among Caron’s work is the androgynous head on a curvaceously fit womans body. The artist herself sported a very short pixie cut at the time, but had fallen into the habit of painting buns and ponytails on most of her subjects. The lack of noticeable hairstyle also make the figure seem ageless.

Measuring 16 inches by 20 inches unframed, this canvas adds character and interest to any modern decor. The wooden frame gives the smooth texture of the painting contrast in its volume and deep, detailed grooves.

The name – Exercises for Everyday – implies that the variety of fitness exercises taught with ballet barres offsets the mundane nature of exercise. To be able to workout everyday and not feel bored from week to week is a rare and addictive sensation.

16 x 20 acrylic on canvas

18.5 x 22.5 wooden frame

$225 before shipping

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