Since the start of class
in the beginning of the semester, we’ve looked at some monumentally influential
artists. For example, one of my personal favorites, Paul Cézanne, who lived
from 1839 to 1906. Cézanne was a French artist and post-impressionist painter
whose work laid the foundation for many other great artists to build on.
Cézanne is said to have bridged the gap between late
19th century impressionism and early 20th century forms
of cubism. His unique method of building form with color and the analytical
approach he takes to nature established him as one of the most influential
artists of the 19th century. Unsatisfied with the Impressionist dictum that painting is
primarily a reflection of visual perception, Cézanne sought to make of his
artistic practice a new kind of analytical discipline. In his hands, the canvas
itself takes on the role of a screen where an artist's visual sensations are
registered as he gazes intensely, and often repeatedly, at a given subject.
Both Matisse and Picasso are said to have recognized Cézanne as “the father of
us all”.
One of his most easily
recognizable works of art, which also happens to be my favorite painting of all
time – The Card Players – shows just captivating his work can be. The short,
exploratory brush strokes he uses are a signature touch in his artwork and
really helps to convey his intense study of his subjects. Overall, Paul Cézanne contributed enormously
to modern art, and his legacy lives on.
No comments:
Post a Comment