“Portraits and Figures” is the next exhibition slated for The Bascom in Highlands this month. The show opened July 19 and runs through Aug. 14, the exhibition showcases artworks from multiple collections that explore several artists’ approach to the portrait and figure. Among the works that will be exhibited are Chuck Close, Matisse, a life-sized puppet from 1750 and many others.

People have been drawing images of themselves and others for thousands of years. The oldest known portrait is about 27,000 years old. It was found by Gerard Jourdy near Angouleme, France, and predates the cave drawings of Lascaux by 10,000 years. It has a Modigliani quality to it with elongated features and narrowed eyes.

Ever since people first made what we call art, they have been fascinated with their own image and have used the human body to express ideas and ideals. Popular culture in the 21st century continues to be obsessed with beautiful people: Ten Best Dressed Women, 50 Sexiest Men, for example.

Many of today’s collectors respond to the different ways in which art communicates through figurative works so many different things: great physical or idealized beauty, symbolic portraits, accurate likeness and spiritual beauty. And they include these works in their collections.

Gallery hours are Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Bascom is located inside the Hudson Library, on Main Street in Highlands. For more information call 828.526.4949, ext. 1.