The Susans
An examination of the "Susan" personalities during the Pin-Up deKooning series.
An examination of the "Susan" personalities during the Pin-Up deKooning series.
The Pin-Up deKooning series developed into dual personalities during the production cycle. One version devoted a literal version of the source image which was found on the internet of a “camera club” model in a Indian headdress. This personality became known as "Susan".
The other version of the pin-up figure was a different story altogether. She would appear when Susan’s nudity and literalism no longer worked or was seen as an obstacle for gallery display. This personality became known as "Rachael".
The images in the “Susans” collection all share universal similarities like location and image literalism. The face and breasts are almost decidedly modeled and literal during Susans appearances. The environ-mental integration creates most of the variety and was deeply investigated. Before Susan disappeared forever, she would stand alone, without the right half’s supporting cast. These solo versions have a small following, with some viewers appreciating the empty right half saying, “it lets them focus on just the figure”.
The other version of the pin-up figure was a different story altogether. She would appear when Susan’s nudity and literalism no longer worked or was seen as an obstacle for gallery display. This personality became known as "Rachael".
The images in the “Susans” collection all share universal similarities like location and image literalism. The face and breasts are almost decidedly modeled and literal during Susans appearances. The environ-mental integration creates most of the variety and was deeply investigated. Before Susan disappeared forever, she would stand alone, without the right half’s supporting cast. These solo versions have a small following, with some viewers appreciating the empty right half saying, “it lets them focus on just the figure”.
PIN-UP DEKOONING SERIES
Part One - The Rachaels | Part Two - The Susans | Part Three - Every Figure
Version Two Recombined Iteration Two
Version Two Recombined Iteration Twelve
Version Four Recombined Iteration Two
Version Six Recombined Iteration One
Version Six Iteration Thirteen
Version Eight Recombined Iteration Three
Version Ten Recombined Iteration Six
Version Ten Recombine Iteration Eight
Version Ten Recombined Iteration Fourteen
