Yoanna Kissel – Dreamer, De Yoanna Kissel

The composition presents a young woman centrally positioned against a dark teal background. She is depicted in profile, her gaze directed forward with a contemplative expression. A vibrant orange headscarf covers her hair and drapes loosely around her shoulders, drawing attention to the face while adding a splash of warmth to the otherwise cool color palette. Her attire consists of a simple, dark blue garment that emphasizes her slender frame.
Surrounding the figure is an array of playing cards, seemingly suspended in mid-air. These are not arranged randomly; they appear to orbit around her head and shoulders, creating a visual halo effect. The cards’ intricate designs – a mix of floral motifs and symbolic imagery – are rendered with considerable detail, contrasting sharply against the dark backdrop. Several cards are oriented face up, revealing their elaborate patterns, while others are turned sideways or angled away from direct view.
The artists choice to place these playing cards around the woman suggests a layered narrative. The cards could represent fate, chance, or perhaps even illusions – elements that might be influencing her thoughts and emotions. Her posture, with one hand resting thoughtfully on her forehead, reinforces this sense of introspection and deliberation. It is as if she is weighing possibilities, contemplating a decision, or attempting to decipher the meaning behind these symbolic objects.
The subdued color scheme contributes to the painting’s overall mood of quiet reflection. The dark background creates a sense of depth and mystery, while the orange headscarf serves as a focal point, drawing the viewers eye to the womans face. The contrast between the figure’s stillness and the dynamic arrangement of the cards generates a subtle tension within the composition.
The work seems to explore themes of identity, destiny, and the interplay between internal thought processes and external forces. It is not merely a portrait but rather an exploration of psychological state, conveyed through symbolic imagery and carefully considered compositional elements.