The Art of Digression

We took a trip to Seattle to see Farm to Table: Art, Food, and Identity in the Age of Impressionism. I expected to write a post about it, but was distracted by some examples of artistic skill.

Bear in mind that I know nothing about most of the visual arts, but as every rube says, “I know what I like.” And what I found myself liking a lot was the stunning technical skill on display by these turn-of-the-last-century artists.

Like what, you ask?

Take a moment and consider how difficult it must be to paint a water pitcher. The refraction and reflection created by the glass would be complex. Then add the water’s effect.

How about that tablecloth! The depiction of the creases, the folds, and the frayed edges is almost photographic. Now zoom in and notice the texture of the cloth.

This painting of two orphans makes a political point by evoking the colors of the French flag: bleu, blanc, et rouge. It also illustrates my point about craftwork. Notice the treatment of the torn and frayed skirt.

The strands of straw blowing in the wind were made by scratching through the painted surface to the base layer.

Moving on from technique to subject matter…

Let’s call this pair “Shopping for the rich” and “Dining for the poor.” The latter is no joke. Rats were on the menu during the Siege of Paris in the Franco‑Prussian War.

And now, a few of my favorites.