Ruth Duckworths pieces focus on harmony, smooth sequences and balance.

Some of her pieces feature approximate symmetry, but most have a strong sense of asymmetrical balance. The forms are often abstract beyond all recognition, but they are elegant and pristine looking. Smooth curves and pristine whiteness dominate much of her work. A few pieces have a much more primitive texture, but most are silken-looking, creating a sense of unity in her body of work. Color is apparently a rare contrast, and frequently in neutral shades. Occasionally a piece features a stunning blue color, but not usually. What I can see indicates her work is small. Not tiny, fit-in-your-hand small, but respectable. I think a lot of her sculptures are somewhere in the 1-2 ft. range? Its hard to tell. The murals are bigger, of course, but flatter as well. In contrast, Betty Woodmans work is riotously colorful and huge. Where the simplicity of Duckworths pieces creates the harmony and balance, Woodmans work relies on a vibrant and vital movement. Her pots are abstract but recognizably descended from pots. Giant, heavily distorted and abstract pots, but still. They are like vessels that have learned to dance. They are more heavily textured and certainly more surface decorated. Many feature her distinctive oval spiral slabs as handles, fronts or other decorations. There's a strong, strong focus on asymmetrical balance. Even when the pillow pitchers are formed in a symmetrical manner, the glazing is wild and free. However, despite how busy many of these vessels are, they maintain and amazing sense of balance and unity as a whole. She has gift for going far, but not too far somehow. Though initially almost overwhelming, the work doesnt descend into complete chaostheres a hidden order to it. I think this

derives from being able to recognize a base form and the carefully chosen colors that go into each composition. She seems to have an excellent grasp of color theory. Lots of colors go into the pieces, but the paintings are proportional to the largescaled vessels. Both women have beautiful work, but they are absolutely different. Duckworths pieces embody tranquility, peace and a calm serenity. They are softspoken, but powerful. She represents an understated harmony very Zen. They hold a solitary grace. Woodman is wild, playful and exuberant. Her work demands to be noticed immediately with riotous color and large scales, and the strength of her designs holds up on a closer inspection. I know my house is more likely to feature Woodman than Duckworth, but my sister would have a Duckworth house. Both are valid lifestyle choices from amazing artists.