Three Boys

Three Boys has an interesting second life: it was chosen as the front cover illustration for the Penguin Modern Classics edition of Alan Paton’s iconic work of South African literature Cry the Beloved Country.

The confluence between novel and painting is clear. Podlashuc’s gift lies in portraying, with a clear social conscience, the pathos and poverty of the children in the image, while still stylising their figuration, making the work not only aesthetically pleasing but also politically compelling. 

Artwork courtesy of Rupert Museum.