Last night I attended a private showing of the Cezanne collection at the National Gallery of Art. It was superbly done with delicious food (duck, wild pheasant, and vegetable pate; french cheeses with baguettes; truffles galore; and an intense chocolate fondue display), twinkle lights, fountains, and of course Cezanne's masterpieces.
Cezanne is an interesting character. He was often referred to as a recluse and socially awkward. However, I find him intriguing. He was never content and sought solace and solitude in the French countryside.
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Were it not that I am deeply in love with the landscape of my country, I should not be here."
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There are treasures to be taken away from this country, which has not yet found an interpreter worthy of the riches it offers."
He was also more interested in technique than the finished product. He was a perfectionist, and always struggled to "master the means of his artistic expression." I wonder if that is why he left so many paintings unfinished? I also wonder if this is why Joseph Barnes (The Barnes Foundation, Merion, PA) who was a powerful voice for art education bought so many of his paintings?
Yet, his paintings are powerful. Cezanne uses deep colors and rich texture. I especially love the warm orange hues. Imagine living in a manor house that was flanked with ponds, large gardens, a conservatory, vineyards, orchards, and a chestnut-lined avenue...picturesque, inspiring, lovely!
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Art is a harmony that runs parallel with nature."
