Constance Bigelow (US American, 1881-1969)
1945 Debutante (Miss Meriwether Lewis Cowgill), 1919
oil on canvas
32″ x 24″
Gift of Meriwether C. Schmid, 2013.1
The artist, Constance Bigelow, worked as both an artist and as a registered nurse throughout her life. She maintained a strong presence in Fitchburg, where she took classes and exhibited her artwork. While her main medium was watercolor, Bigelow also created oil paintings. The debutante, Ms. Cowgill, as is tradition, wears a white dress to symbolize her purity and innocence for her formal introduction into society. Reminiscent of James McNeill Whistler’s Symphony in White, No. 1: The White Girl, Bigelow also plays with a white dress on a neutral background. The rich satins of Ms. Cowgill’s dress reflect light, and white hydrangeas, which are often associated with Debutante balls delicately fall in place. The focus remains on Ms. Cowgill as her face and hands are distinct from both the background and her dress.