Paintings

Female nudity has been a fascinating and shocking symbol in art since the beginning of humanity. Throughout the centuries, artists have been accused, absolved, marginalized, or gained admiration, glory, and acceptance, depending on the social and political climate of the day. Coye seeks none of the above in her presentation of the female form, but instead uses it as a further expression of her theme of beauty in everything.

With a bright pallet and expressive brush strokes, Joan gives us a variety of expressions to the female form. Her highly symbolic and abstract renderings on circular mat boards offer a Picasso flavor, while the gilded voluptuous flying angels in pastel give nod to religious frescoes of the renaissance. Coye’s series of black and white figures with red hats rendered on a collage background convey a bit of naughty fun in their poses and words chosen. No matter the style, the female figures in Joan’s painting work are comfortable in their skin and uniquely beautiful.