The Irene Dunne Site
What I See In Irene Dunne
by Onestus Uzzell
PAINTING my portrait of Irene Dunne permitted to study, as only an artist can, those qualities and characteristics which combine to form one of the most genuninely impressive personalities I have ever met. The film star's beauty is classic. This, in itself, is not unusual. When you add to classic beauty an aristocratic mien, a complete lack of affectation, and the perspective of a modern woman as Miss Dunne does, however, you have a beauty that is truly unique.
I found graciousness, an infectious sense of humor and a disarming naturalness among the screen star's outstanding characteristics. Her naturalness was best expressed the moment she entered my studio. She noted the 15-foot ceiling, usually an indication of excellent acoustics, and promptly experimented for herself by singing. She also evidenced sincere interest in the technical aspects of painting a portrait, both her own and that of others which I showed her.
Her graciousness was shown in everything she did and said while at the studio. She never once demanded anything; she respected me as painter and allowed me to a free hand in my work. As she is a person of many accomplishments, I appreciated this consideration immensely.
Another of Miss Dunne's qualities that all women would do well to cultivate, especially at this time, is her quiet dignity. It was this characteristic that prompted her to choose a neutral blue suit in which to pose for her portrait, instead of a fluffy chiffon gown. As might be expected, her home reflects this same quality. As a result, she has used neutral colors throughout in her house.
In painting this portrait of the film star, I sought to express all those things which form an integral part of Irene Dunne, the actress, the home-maked, the woman. A portrait, to be successful, should do just that. It should be "the person." The artist's brush should portray in color and line the character as well as the beauty of the subject.
Study the expression on Miss Dunne's face; the half-smile, the lips slightly parted. This is as typical of the film star as the tilt of her pretty nose. You will also notice that she is looking off the canvas. This was done intentionally. It indicates that Miss Dunne is a dreamer, but that she is practical as well. This combination is a "surefire" success formula. It means that she can create, and, most important of all, can effectively present the product of her artistry.
Miss Dunne's Hollywood record is an individual and eminentely successful one. She has achieved the emotional and fianancial security for which all of us strive. The qualities in her that I have described are largely respopnsible for her success.
Most commissioned portrait work automatically becomes nothing more than a saccharine, candified form of flattery. I like to believe that mine is not that. I have tried sincerely to show you Miss Dunne as she really is - a great person.
An artist who paints his subject as she sees her seldom pleases the sitter. Onestus Uzzell (above) did please Miss Dunne, however. His portrait of her is in her home.
ACCORDING to many critics, Onestus Uzzell is one of three painters in the United States who can paint a portray that is satisfying as a likeness and at the same time as art.
The artist, who studied in Paris and in New York City a the Art Students League, is represented in museums and private collections throughout the country. He did work for both World's Fairs. His most recent award was the Popular Nationa Award of the San Diego Museum for his canvas "Seated Woman with Fruit." Voted upon by both laymen and fellow artists. His work received two-thirds of the votes cast.
At work, at home or in public, Irene is always completely at ease. She is as poised when working before the camera as when she chats with Director Gregory LaCava (above)
He has painted many society and political leaders, including Wendell Wilkie and England's Lord Halifax. Because of his record, Mr. Uzzell's portrais of Miss Dunne and accompaying article should be of genuine interest to all Screen Guide readers... The Editors.
"Unfinished Business" had Irene ina quandary about two men. Patic Knowles, on leave from the Canadian RAF, is her interest in the new "Lady in Distress."