Showing results for "An Artist's Model" in Literature & Fiction

In this Asian/Canadian perspective on "foreignness," Marion (the protagonist) eventually leaves the cruelty of racial discrimination in Quebec and moves to New York in pursuit of her dream to become an artist. In New York not only does she continue to confront racial discrimination, but also objectification as a woman. Unable to support herself as an artist, she becomes an artist's model. This is a story of "passing," racial identity, and gender during the turn of the 20th century in New York. (Summary by James K. White)

Explore the poignant journey of Marion, a young woman navigating the complexities of foreignness in an Asian/Canadian context. After escaping the harsh realities of racial discrimination in Quebec, she sets her sights on New York, hoping to fulfill her dream of becoming an artist. Yet, as she grapples with the challenges of racial bias and the objectification of women, her aspirations take an unexpected turn when she becomes an artists model. This compelling narrative delves into themes of passing, racial identity, and gender dynamics during the transformative early 20th century in New York. (...

Alfie is an artist who has women with money in the bank and time on their hands queuing up to commission him to paint them. For Alfie, this provides a steady income, and sometimes there are side benefits, too. He is approached by the 18-year-old waitress from the coffee shop across the street who wants a painting of her for her mother's birthday. When she realizes how much Alfie charges, she knows she can't pay but agrees to model for him in his glamour photo sideline business.