The artwork “Betty” was created by artist Gerhard Richter in 1988. It is an oil on canvas painting, capturing the essence of the New European Painting movement of which Richter was a significant proponent. With precise dimensions of 101.9 by 59.4 cm, the piece is distinctively figurative, exhibiting such characteristics in its realistic representation. Currently, the painting is housed at the Saint Louis Art Museum, located in St. Louis, Missouri, United States.
The artwork portrays a young girl seen from behind, her body slightly turned as she looks over her shoulder, off-canvas, as if engaged in a moment of contemplation or pause. She is clothed in a vibrant red and white garment with a bold floral pattern that provides a stark contrast to the dark, understated background. The detailed texturing of her hair and the soft folds of her clothing underscore Richter’s meticulous and deft application of oil paint, evoking a photographic quality oft-associated with his work. The subject’s identity is not the focus of the piece; instead, the composition conveys a sense of intimacy and immediateness, inviting the viewer to consider the narrative behind this quietly arresting moment.
