American artist Joe Fig talks about his Contemplation series in which he paints pictures of people in art galleries and museums looking at paintings, most recently last year’s Vermeer exhibition in Amsterdam. He discusses the concept, his process and his fascination with body language. He also talks about the miniature sculptures he makes of artists in their studios, both historical and current, and how he constructs their implements in miniature and in extraordinary detail.

Joe Fig talking with Bob Chaundy

Accompanying images on consideringart.com

Vermeer – Woman in Blue Reading a Letter

Vermeer – Girl with a Pearl Earring (detail)

Vermeer – Mistress and Maid

Yayo Kusama, Aspiring to Pumpkin’s Love, The Love in My Heart

Jackson Pollock in his Studio – Miniature sculpture

Thomas Hart Benton in his studio – miniature sculpture

All images are © Joe Fig

You can see more of Joe’s work on his website

Contemplating Vermeer is currently showing at the Sarasota Art Museum, Florida until April 13 2025

Music: Ibiza by MBB | https://soundcloud.com/mbbofficial