top of page

Photos of the Month
A collection of photos that capture the magic of the seasons and the variations of light throughout the year. These photos highlight the changing beauty of nature, the diversity of scenes and seasons, the variations of light to create inspiring compositions.

The Three Bares, Claude Gauthier
In this evocative photograph, Gertrude Vanderbilt Whitney’s sculpture The Three Bares (1931) is beautifully showcased against the backdrop of McGill Campus. The image captures the graceful forms of the three figures, each embodying a unique sense of poise and character. The sculptures, with their smooth, rounded contours and subtle details, exude an air of classical elegance while simultaneously reflecting the modernist style of the time. Surrounded by lush greenery, the campus blooms with vibrant spring colors, contrasting with the stone-like texture of the sculptures. The sunlight filters through the leaves, casting gentle shadows that add depth and dimension to the scene. This interplay of light and nature highlights the beauty of the figures, accentuating their features and inviting viewers to explore the intimate relationship between art and environment.

However, this photograph is imbued with a contemporary layer of social commentary, as paint adorns the nipples of the figures, transforming the sculpture into a focal point for protest. This act serves as a bold statement regarding the long history of The Three Bares and its ongoing conversation around nudity and social acceptability in art. By drawing attention to these painted details, the protest challenges traditional notions of modesty and body representation, provoking discussions about societal standards and the female form.

The composition invites contemplation, as the three figures seem to engage with one another, frozen in a moment of shared existence. Their serene expressions and fluid poses evoke a sense of harmony and tranquility, inviting onlookers to pause and reflect. This photograph captures not only the artistry of Whitney’s work but also the spirit of spring and the serene beauty of McGill Campus, creating a timeless connection between nature, human creativity, and evolving societal norms.

bottom of page