Eileen

Redpath graduated from Edinburgh College of Art in 1919. She spent fifteen years living in France where she painted very little. Her reputation as an artist developed much later in life. Following her return to Scotland in 1934 she quickly became a prominent figure within the Scottish, and later the British art scene, exhibiting regularly and being elected to an increasing number of distinguished art societies. She was the first woman painter to become a full member of the Royal Scottish Academy. Redpath was renowned for her loose handling of paint as demonstrated in this portrait. Her interests as a colourist were also significant and were reflected in the many bright and vivid landscapes and still-lifes she produced. Eileen is, by contrast, a more subdued work. The picture is dominated by the curves of the chair and table coupled with the bold pattern of the dress. The usually important parts of a portrait, like the hands and face, are blurred to create an air of calm that surrounds the young woman. The sitter is Mrs Mitchie, who was Redpath's daughter-in-law.