Holly Coulis’s Petal Still Life with Cola (2022) exemplifies her signature approach to reimagining still life. The composition features overlapping forms that combine the vibrancy of oil paint with the interplay of geometry and bold color. At first glance, the painting appears to depict familiar objects—a cup, lemons, petals—but Coulis abstracts these elements through layered shapes and shifting perspectives.

The work transforms the traditional still-life genre into a playful yet rigorous exploration of form and space. The juxtaposition of organic shapes with precise lines invites viewers to navigate between representation and abstraction, drawing attention to the process of seeing and interpreting.

By challenging traditional spatial relationships and embracing dynamic forms, Coulis’s Petal Still Life with Cola underscores the complexity of perception while maintaining a sense of lighthearted curiosity. It is both an homage to and a redefinition of the still-life tradition, offering viewers a vibrant, multifaceted experience.