Cathy Daley is a Toronto-based artist who began receiving international attention in the 1980‘s for her signature style of depicting the female form.  Her signature motif features elegant and stylized female figures in dramatic clothes; done in thick black pastel, ink, or charcoal on near-translucent vellum paper. This unique work is a paradigm of Daley’s practice, featuring a sleek black high-heeled leg beneath a diaphanous tutu. 

artworks are “inspired by ballerina tutus, the garbs of fairy-tale princesses and Barbie doll couture” in the context of “[exploring] cultural representation of the feminine and the body” in Western culture. Her works thrive on juxtaposing the lithe, ethereal female figures, whose qualities are also mirrored in the delicate vellum paper, with the opaque, black shapes she creates.   

These figures alternate being weighty and striking while simultaneously appearing delicate and soft. The tension between the feminine and powerful is clear in both her figures and mediums of choice. It is also open to interpretation why the artist frequently avoids the torso/face or identity of her muses. The result is that Daley's works are seductive and subversive....as well as being playful and mysterious.   

Cathy Daley works can be found in numerous private and public collections across North America including the , the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO), and the University of Pennsylvania: Friedman Gallery, among many others. 

Questions about this piece?  or call 1.416.704.1720

'Untitled 835', 2011

Signed and dated by the artist

Gallery label from Newzones Gallery of Contemporary Art, Calgary verso. 

Oil pastel on vellum paper

4.75"H 4.75"W (work)

10"H 10'W (framed)

Minor wear to frame.

Very good condition.