Francesca Alexander in ‘Sight and Site Lines’ at Driscoll Babcock Galleries

At a time when sensitive portraits of African Americans were far from the norm, 19th century Boston artist Francesca Alexander’s tiny ink on paper sketch from 1852 of Julia Benson charms. (At Driscoll Babcock Galleries in Chelsea through Oct 22nd).

Francesca Alexander, Julia Benson, ink on paper, 5 1/8 x 4 ¾ inches, 1852.
Francesca Alexander, Julia Benson, ink on paper, 5 1/8 x 4 ¾ inches, 1852.

John Singer Sargent at the Metropolitan Museum of Art

Performers give it their all in one of the best galleries in the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s John Singer Sargent show, focusing on non commissioned (hence less restricted) portraits of friends and colleagues. Here, after meeting musical patron and singer Mabel Batten, Sargent persuaded her to pose for this incredible portrait of singing abandon. (Through Oct 4th).

John Singer Sargent, Mrs George Batten Singing, oil on canvas, 1897.