Activity #2: Write About It!


Both Warm and cool colors are used to invoke the feelings of island paradise. At the bottom of this Paul Gauguin work titled, Fatata te Miti (By the Sea), 1892, oil on canvas, is an apparent use of monochromatic colors as red ultimately flows into blue- violet – all of which form a shoreline and assist in balancing the affects of light and dark in this wonderous picture plane. After such a smooth progression of color, the once controversial black is introduced and successfully forms the contour lines of the two female figures that are all too eager to descend into the flourishing sea. The diagonal line subsequently created with black, gradually allows another figure to be uncovered in the rear of the scene. The bright red around the waist exposes a more masculine shape as the brown torso fades into a desired darkness. It is apparent that the figure in the background is not accompanying the female figures – but is off to enjoy another type of recreational activity in isolation. The artists’ use of black is able to play on the use of negative shapes and allow ones imagination to thrive - as to question what other wonders may be uncovered.



Activity #2: Write About It!

In the Paul Gauguin work titled, The Bathers, 1897, oil on canvas - I was immediately drawn to the brilliant and vibrant colors within the painting. This open palette work is truly eye catching. This bathing scene of four figures ranging from fully clothed to nude immediately draws ones eyes to the central vertical lines of a tree as it almost immediately divides the picture in a two-panel before and after scene. The intensity of the use of complementary colors also allows the work to fully express the apparent lush landscape and the beauty of its indigenous inhabitants. The use of light also assists in allowing the contour lines of the central figures to be so defined as to relay their feminine shapes and mannerisms. The positive shapes used for the four figures are also able to successfully balance the negative shapes of the vegetation on the backdrop. The diagonal line that makes up the flowing river from the upper left of the picture and pooling in the center with a slight incline, create an atmosphere of tranquil action. The water source is able to embody a central role in maintaining balance between its human, animal and its vegetative patrons.