My Covid Classics – #8

Posted on by The Wandering Art Historian

The Wandering Art Historian book club met last week to discuss Lydia Cassatt Reading the Morning Paper by Harriet Scott Chessman.

This slim tome packs a mighty emotional punch that seems to resonate even more profoundly in 2020, despite the story being set in 1878. Told from the perspective of Mary Cassatt’s sister and frequent model, Lydia, this novel is inspired by five paintings Mary completed with her sister as the primary model. It is a loving and touching depiction of sisters who care deeply for each other and need each other more than they realize.

Please enjoy my #CovidClassics reinterpretation of the painting that inspired the title of this book. Be aware that I made a few edits to make it more relevant to our current situation.

“Lydia Cassatt Reading the Morning Paper,” Mary Cassatt, 1878-1879

“Adrienne Lee Reading the Morning News,” Adrienne H. Lee, 2020

One thought on “My Covid Classics – #8”

  1. You really nailed this one! I love the expression on your face. It’s how all of us feel most mornings when we wake to the latest COVID news. Thanks for giving me a smile.

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I am writer and artist with a degree in art history who loves to talk to people about art. I have spent the last seven years building up The Wandering Art Historian “brand” as a way to connect with people who want to learn more about art. I give lectures and presentations and teach classes and host book club discussions with a creative or artistic connection. I also write about local artists, events, museums, and exhibitions to promote the arts in Central Florida. In 2021, I had a creative crisis. I struggled with authenticity in the art making process. I decided to make myself vulnerable and find out what a real, genuine Adrienne H. Lee artwork would look like. The process was challenging and emotional and revelatory. I learned that if necessity is the mother of invention, then authenticity is the mother of reinvention. I reinvented myself and learned an entirely new medium. The resulting artwork surprised me, and it will surprise you, too. Some people wish for a fairytale ending. For me, the fairy tale is only the beginning.