Representing icons from the golden age of Hollywood, Jody Little reflects on the prevailing mysticism surrounding figures who no longer have a physical presence but who continue to inspire meaning for so many. In this way, there is a dichotomy in his work between absence and presence. Similarly, Little often paints images of his ancestors, lost to obscurity through time, which again, seems to reflect a fascination for those of whom only traces remain. His portraits are composed of printmaking techniques juxtaposed with chalky conté crayon and subtle washes of colour. Little often uses collage to add textural depth to his work and to infuse colour to otherwise black and white portraits. Indeed, the portraits are often rendered in black, with colour used sporadically, lifting the imagery, similar to the effect of recoloured photographs. Through the tentative process of layering, Little’s work seems to embody a love of materiality while simultaneously, and perhaps fittingly, exploring the enduring presence of those he represents.
