Tretchikoff gained notoriety for his artwork during the mid-20th century, particularly for pieces like "The Chinese Girl," often referred to as "The Green Lady." His work repeatedly fell under the classification of kitsch due to its popular appeal, sentimental themes, and somewhat formulaic approach to composition and subject matter. However, reframing Tretchikoff's art through a maximalist lens allows for a fresh perspective that goes beyond the aged kitsch label.
When considering Tretchikoff's work from a maximalist standpoint, the focus shifts from merely labeling it as kitsch to appreciating the deliberate use of vibrant colours, bold compositions, and the amalgamation of diverse cultural influences. Maximalism embraces the idea of combining various elements, styles, and cultural references to create a visually stimulating and layered narrative, and Tretchikoff's art, upon closer inspection, embodies several characteristics of maximalism. Tretchikoff's artworks most often feature rich, intense colours, which are central to maximalist aesthetics. The vivid hues he used weren't just for their eye-catching appeal but also to convey emotions and cultural nuances. His portrayal of subjects—such as the enigmatic "Chinese Girl" with her striking green complexion—evoked a sense of exoticism and mystery, elements that can align with the narrative complexity often found in maximalist art. Art historian and critic Robert C. Morgan explains:
"Maximalism reconfigures the notion of excess in art, not as kitsch but as a deliberate strategy to challenge aesthetic boundaries, inviting viewers to delve deeper into the complexities of form, content, and cultural references."
Maximalism encourages the incorporation of various cultural references and influences into artistic creations. Tretchikoff, who traveled extensively and was influenced by different cultures, reflected this diversity in his art. His ability to blend elements from Asian, African, and other cultural aesthetics into his compositions showcases a tendency toward maximalist inclusivity rather than solely catering to kitschy stereotypes. By reframing Tretchikoff's work as maximalist rather than simply dismissing it as kitsch, one can appreciate the deliberate curation of elements, the bold use of colours, and the fusion of diverse cultural inspirations. This perspective acknowledges his intent to create a visually captivating and culturally diverse body of work, which aligns more with the principles of maximalism than the superficial associations often attributed to kitsch.
While Tretchikoff's art might not fully adhere to the intentional curation and deliberate layering seen in typical maximalist artworks, it does contribute to and complement the ethos of maximalist design. His embrace of diverse cultural motifs and the creation of visually captivating compositions with emotional depth aligns with the spirit of maximalism, which celebrates richness, diversity, and a sense of exuberance in artistic expression.
In essence, reassessing Tretchikoff's art through a maximalist lens allows for a deeper understanding and appreciation of the intentional choices he made in creating his iconic pieces, emphasizing the richness, complexity, and diversity present in his work beyond the confines of kitsch classification.