Art Review: Artist Christopher McVicar by Ingrid Rivera

 

Milk and Honey by Christopher McVicar

The project I will discuss today is Milk and Honey by Christopher McVicar.

Milk and Honey is a tribute to his mother additionally its a powerful reflection on how our families shapes us into who we are. McVicar will use scale as a way to communicate this profound impact. The centerpiece is a large scale portrait, 60 by 72 inches, of his mother. Surrounding this center piece will be smaller prints. By using this layout it allows the viewer to feel the mother’s presence feel powerful but also like the anchor of the whole story of who we are and where we come from.

After learning more about McViar, what is interesting is his process. Especially, how he blends both traditional and digital techniques. To start, McViar overlays images in Adobe software to create an ethereal effect. Then the image is printed and drawn on a small scale with a grid. Which is then transferred onto a stretched canvas with charcoal. 

Milk and Honey speaks on the role parents play in shaping us into who we are. McVicar’s choice to depict his mother on such a grand scale speaks to the importance of parental influence in a way that feels both intimate and universal. This piece connects strongly with the ongoing societal conversation about the lack of support for parents, a need that continues to be undervalued. Like McVicar’s work, programs such as Rx Kids in Flint, Michigan, recognize the idea that when we invest in families, we are investing in our future.

As I reflect on the piece, I’m in awe of the emotional depth it carries. The scale of the centerpiece painting immediately pulls you in. What holds your attention is the sense that the mother represents more than just herself; she stands for history, lineage, and love that spans through generations. The ethereal quality of the work gives it a dreamlike presence, capturing a moment that is somewhere between memory and reality. It’s clear McVicar wants us to feel the emotional weight and societal value of parents.

Milk and Honey is not only compelling for its message but also for its execution. This piece captures something universal about family and identity. What sets it apart is the way McVicar’s process combines both digital and traditional methods. A process that reflects the complexity of the themes he’s exploring. This is more than just a beautiful portrait. It’s an invitation to reflect on the value of family and to do what’s needed to ensure future generations get the support they deserve.