Treasured

Although this painting could also be viewed as a portrait, it is a fictional representation of a girl holding a book which is apparently a significant possession. The title alludes to this and also hints that perhaps the girl herself is the real treasure. Treasured was a commission for Fred Ross in 2013. In correspondences between the two, Mr Ross left the idea open to the artist, only specifying that the commission should have aspects of strength and richness, include a feminine personality of beauty and intelligence, and possess an enigmatic quality.  Mr Ross is the chairman and founder of the Art Renewal Center, Mr Ross has been a long time champion and activist of representational painting in the world of traditional art. He is an important collector and patron of international contemporary artists as well as 19th century European painting with an exceptional focus on G. Bouguereau and Gerome. He also spearheaded the writing and publication of several historical catalogues that serve as valuable artistic resources, including the works of Charles Bargue and the complete two-volume set of Bouguereau’s works. Mr Ross also sponsors the annual ARC International Art Salon that includes the works of hundreds of artists across the world and awards scholarships annually for the purpose of study at officially recognized academies.