Even with the rich, vibrant color palate Tara McPherson employs, she still continues to characterize people and creatures of her own creation with darkness and intensity. Women with the same sense of danger and desire in their eyes as the sirens in fairytales are a common theme in her work. By their side, you might notice some of the creatures previously mentioned. From elephants and bears, to balloons with saucer eyes and bunny ears, they appear to me to be the much more playful, sprightly sidekicks.

Tara seems to have a lively propensity in most of her work. However, I also get the feeling she uses her art to express past emotions that weigh much heaver on her. In fact, some of my favorite pieces are on the darker end of the spectrum.

This piece in particular immediately consumes your attention with the sharp ferocity in her eyes.

Other images, like the one below, are much brighter in theme and yet she still doesn’t lose the intensity that draws you in.