PYG GE 032 Stepping Out Stepping High 1950s Gil Elvgren (1914-1980)

The composition presents a woman emerging from a vehicle, seemingly poised mid-action. She is positioned on the drivers side doorframe, one leg dangling outside and the other supporting her weight within the car. Her posture suggests a playful, almost precarious balance, contributing to an overall sense of lightheartedness. The artist has rendered her with meticulous attention to detail; skin tones are smooth and luminous, highlighting a carefully constructed ideal of feminine beauty. She wears a yellow top and skirt, complemented by stockings and high-heeled shoes – typical attire for the mid-20th century. White gloves complete the ensemble, adding an element of sophistication and glamour.
The vehicle itself is rendered with considerable realism, showcasing its chrome details and sleek design characteristic of automobiles from the 1950s. The background features a blurred landscape suggesting an outdoor setting, likely suburban or rural. This backdrop reinforces the images association with leisure and affluence.
Beyond the surface depiction, several subtexts emerge. The woman’s expression conveys a mixture of confidence and amusement, hinting at a self-assuredness that was evolving for women during this period. Her interaction with the car – not as a driver but as someone playfully engaging with it – suggests a shift in societal roles and expectations. The image subtly implies access to mobility and freedom, traditionally associated with masculinity, now being embraced by a woman.
The overall effect is one of aspirational consumerism and idealized femininity, reflecting the cultural values and aesthetic preferences prevalent during the 1950s. It’s an invitation to partake in a lifestyle characterized by leisure, style, and technological advancement – a carefully constructed fantasy designed to appeal to a specific demographic.