lrs Dillon L& D Illustrators40 Poster Leo & Diane Dillon

The composition presents a central female figure dominating the visual field. Her skin tone is dark, and her features are rendered with a degree of stylized realism, emphasizing large eyes and full lips. A voluminous halo of tightly curled hair frames her head, extending outwards in a radial pattern that contributes to the image’s overall symmetry. Perched upon her shoulder rests a falcon, its plumage exhibiting intricate patterns of white, brown, and black, accented by a vibrant green feather jutting from its wing.
The figure is draped in a purple garment adorned with elaborate gold ornamentation, reminiscent of ancient Egyptian or Mesoamerican designs. This decorative element extends down the fabric, creating a sense of richness and ceremonial significance. To her right, a masked figure appears, seemingly emerging from the folds of her robe. The mask itself is crafted from what appears to be bronze or terracotta, featuring stylized facial elements and intricate piercings. A small drum sits at the base of this figure, suggesting a ritualistic context.
In the woman’s hands, she holds several objects: a cylindrical container with blue coils emerging from it, and a slender instrument that resembles a paintbrush or stylus. These items introduce an element of ambiguity – are they tools for creation, symbols of power, or perhaps something else entirely? The placement of these objects suggests agency and control on the part of the central figure.
The color palette is dominated by purple, gold, and dark tones, creating a sense of solemnity and grandeur. The use of light is carefully considered; it highlights the face of the woman and the details of the falcon’s plumage, drawing the viewers attention to these key elements.
Subtextually, the work appears to explore themes of power, identity, and cultural heritage. The combination of Egyptian/Mesoamerican motifs with a contemporary female figure suggests a reimagining or reinterpretation of ancient traditions within a modern context. The falcon, often associated with royalty and divine authority in various cultures, reinforces this sense of elevated status. The masked figure could represent ancestral spirits, hidden identities, or the complexities of cultural memory. Ultimately, the image invites contemplation on the interplay between tradition, innovation, and individual agency.