Theorem is a departure from Driscoll’s usual style of painting. This more conceptual piece combines elements of her signature photo-realism with elements of New England folk painting. Traditionally done by women and therefore cast aside as not fitting into the canon of ‘fine art’, the patterns and blocky elements of this style are made equal to Driscoll’s own style of oil painting on this canvas. Fitting with her feminist message, Driscoll reclaims the style and applies it to her own, subverting the idea that craft has no place in a serious gallery setting. Driscoll herself can be seen in the reflection of the silver vase, inserting herself into her own piece as well as into a moment in history. She is seeing herself as those traditional folk artists, rather than being above them due to the nature of her work. Her reflection represents the solidarity she feels with other female artists and celebrates the rich history of women creating despite adversity.

-Piper Forsti