The key answer of exercise 1
The key to exercise solutions in chapter 8 - Culture and competences for the textbook Performer B1, Vol. 2 with authors Marina Spiazzi, Marina Tavella e Margaret Layton from Zanichelli
Question
Look at the paintings and describe them. What do you think the artists wanted to convey?
Answer
Paul Cézanne - "Apples, Peaches, Pears, and Grapes" (1880):
Cézanne's still life painting "Apples, Peaches, Pears, and Grapes" reflects his distinctive post-impressionist style. The composition is marked by geometric shapes and a subtle interplay of color and light. Cézanne, known for his emphasis on form and structure, creates a sense of solidity in the fruits through carefully arranged brushstrokes and subtle shading. The arrangement of the fruits on a table hints at his exploration of spatial relationships. The muted palette and the absence of detailed background distractions draw attention to the inherent beauty of the fruits. Cézanne's approach to the still life genre goes beyond mere representation, conveying a sense of order and balance in the natural world.
Cézanne's intentions: Cézanne's meticulous arrangement of fruits and attention to form suggest a desire to explore the underlying structure of nature. His focus on geometric shapes and spatial relationships reveals an interest in capturing the essence of these ordinary objects in a way that transcends mere representation, hinting at a deeper order and harmony in the world.
Vincent van Gogh - "Blossoming Pear Tree" (1888):
Van Gogh's "Blossoming Pear Tree" showcases his iconic use of vibrant colors and bold, expressive brushstrokes. The painting depicts a blossoming pear tree against a vivid blue sky. The swirling, rhythmic brushstrokes contribute to a sense of movement and energy, characteristic of van Gogh's dynamic style. The vibrant hues of green, yellow, and blue evoke a lively, almost otherworldly atmosphere. Van Gogh's use of impasto, where paint is applied thickly, adds texture and depth to the scene. The swirling patterns and intense colors convey the artist's emotional response to nature, capturing not just the visual representation but the essence and vitality of the blossoming pear tree.
Van Gogh's intentions: Van Gogh's "Blossoming Pear Tree" is a vivid expression of the artist's emotional and spiritual connection to nature. The swirling brushstrokes and vibrant colors convey a sense of vitality and movement, reflecting van Gogh's belief in the spiritual power of art. The blossoming tree becomes a symbol of life and renewal, with the intense colors conveying the artist's emotional response to the beauty of the natural world.