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Gallery V: After Dark
Untitled (BC-113)
William Henry Broome
- Date
- n.d.
- Medium
- 20 oz cotton canvas
- Dimensions
- 24 × 18 in.
- Credit
- © Broome Collection Inc. · © Broome Holding LLC — Property of the William Henry Broome Collection. This artwork forms part of a privately held archival collection. Unauthorized reproduction, publication, photography, digitization, AI training, licensing, or commercial use is strictly prohibited. All rights reserved by Broome Holding LLC and affiliated entities.
Curator’s reflection
BC-113 presents a rare and revealing self-portrait by William Henry Broome. The artist captures himself with remarkable clarity-calm, composed, and directly engaging the viewer with an unwavering gaze.
The warm, textured background of rust and earth tones creates a field of energy that contrasts with the figure's stillness and control. Broome's impasto technique brings vitality to the surface, allowing the suit to almost vibrate with color and movement.
The choice of round glasses and formal attire suggests both intellectualism and professionalism, yet the expression remains introspective. This is not a portrait of role or status, but of the individual behind the creator-one who observes
himself as much as he observes the world.
Through this work, Broome offers more than a likeness. He offers a statement of presence and purpose-an artist confronting his identity within the ongoing act of creation.
Looking closer
- Broome's expressive brushwork creates a dynamic background that contrasts with his steady presence. The orange suit becomes both symbol and statement representing creativity, confidence, and a willingness to stand apart. The direct gaze invites us to look beyond the surface and consider the depth of the artist's self-awareness.
A moment to reflect
The artist does not simply paint the world-he must also turn the brush upon himself and dare to see what is revealed. He left more than paintings. He left a life painted in brushstrokes.