Figurative Works

Shawn Dell Joyce

Figurative Paintings

Most of these works are in series; self-portraits, Women of the Sudan, and the others...I'm endlessly inspired by the spirit and heart of women all over the world!

Self Portraits as Female Archetypes

Eve/Gaia

This diptych shows the contrast of Eve's shame and the Fall of Man with Gaia's sustainable agriculture.
The original oil is 5' square

Kali

Modern woman has to do many things at once; much like Kali the creator/destroyer.
Oil, 5' square 2005.

Mary/Mary

This diptych contrasts the Virgin Mary with Mary Magdalene, the virgin/whore with imagery from DaVinci compositions. Oil on panels, 5' square, 2005.

Women of the Sudan-inspired by Doctors without Borders

Inspired by a very young sister clutching a deceased sibling. Pastel, 24x36 2003

This painting was inspired by women waiting for medical attention for her child in a refugee camp. Her strength and dignity transcend the situation.
Pastel, 24x36 2003

Such calm acceptance of an impossible situation is the gift of wisdom and age.Pastel, 24x36 2003

Who doesn't remember the comfort of hiding in the folds of grandma's skirts?

Woodabe+Women.jpg

These women are picking a mate during an annual Woodabe ritual. Pastel, 18x24, 2003.

Those eyes speak volumes. 18x24 Pastel 2004.

Inspired by a very young sister clutching a deceased sibling. Pastel, 24x36 2003

This painting was inspired by women waiting for medical attention for her child in a refugee camp. Her strength and dignity transcend the situation.
Pastel, 24x36 2003

Such calm acceptance of an impossible situation is the gift of wisdom and age.Pastel, 24x36 2003

Who doesn't remember the comfort of hiding in the folds of grandma's skirts?

Woodabe+Women.jpg

These women are picking a mate during an annual Woodabe ritual. Pastel, 18x24, 2003.

Those eyes speak volumes. 18x24 Pastel 2004.

SCUBA Inspired Deep Psyche

Touching Joy

These images are inspired by photos shot by divers, and by the deep effect of emotions on my psyche. These emotions float under the surface like large creatures, some menacing, some joyful. Pastel, 36x48, 2013

Reaching for a Goal

Pastel, 36x24, 2013

Finding Love

Pastel, 18x24, 2013

Facing Opportunity

Pastel, 36x48, 2013

Touching Joy

These images are inspired by photos shot by divers, and by the deep effect of emotions on my psyche. These emotions float under the surface like large creatures, some menacing, some joyful. Pastel, 36x48, 2013

Reaching for a Goal

Pastel, 36x24, 2013

Finding Love

Pastel, 18x24, 2013

Facing Opportunity

Pastel, 36x48, 2013