ART ::: PAINTER :::
Selina Trieff was born in 1934 in Brooklyn, New York. From an early age, she demonstrated a passion for art, which led her to study at prestigious institutions such as the Art Students League under Morris Kantor, Brooklyn College with Ad Reinhardt and Mark Rothko, and Hans Hofmann’s schools in New York and Provincetown. This education provided her with a strong foundation in both abstract expressionism and figurative painting.
Trieff’s artistic career spanned over five decades during which she developed a unique style that blended elements of abstraction with figurative representation. Her works often featured archetypal figures that were both self-portraits and allegories of the human condition. Despite being influenced by her teachers, Trieff maintained that her art was distinctly her own, stating, “As much as I liked abstract expressionism … I never felt part of any major movement.”
Trieff’s paintings are characterized by their use of vibrant colors and gold leaf, creating a luminous quality reminiscent of medieval stained glass windows. Her compositions often include two or three figures or single heads that convey deep emotional resonance while maintaining an air of mystery. Critics have noted that her work evokes themes of mortality and introspection, inviting viewers to engage with the emotional depth present in each piece.
Her subjects frequently appear as androgynous figures dressed in elaborate costumes from various historical periods. This choice adds layers of complexity to her work, allowing for interpretations that transcend specific timeframes or identities. The figures often seem to be engaged in intimate dialogues or shared experiences, further enhancing the viewer’s connection to the artwork.
Selina Trieff became a significant figure within the Provincetown art community alongside her husband Robert Henry. They spent summers in Wellfleet and winters in Brooklyn while actively participating in local exhibitions and teaching at various art institutions. Their contributions helped shape the contemporary art landscape in Provincetown, where they were involved with notable galleries such as Berta Walker Gallery.
Trieff’s legacy is marked not only by her extensive body of work but also by her role as an educator who inspired countless students through her teachings on color theory and artistic exploration. She was known for fostering creativity among aspiring artists while sharing insights drawn from her own experiences.
Throughout her career, Selina Trieff received critical acclaim from prominent art critics who recognized her as an “American original.” Her works have been exhibited widely across the United States and Europe, finding homes in esteemed public collections including the Brooklyn Museum and the New York Public Library.
Even after facing health challenges later in life, Trieff continued to create art until she could no longer hold a brush. She passed away peacefully on January 14, 2015, leaving behind a rich legacy that continues to resonate within the art community today.
