Description
conceptualization:
1. Context and inspiration: Van Gogh and xanthopsia:
• Van Gogh and yellow vision: Xanthopsia, or yellow vision, is a visual phenomenon where the world is perceived through a dominant yellow. This condition, often associated with medical disorders or intoxications, is used here as an artistic metaphor. It evokes an altered perception, a way of seeing the world differently, which resonates with the work of Van Gogh, known for his intense use of the color yellow and his unique vision of the world.
2. Digital and Physical Reinterpretation:
• Digital Abstraction: The digital reinterpretation of L'Arlesienne transforms the original work into an abstract version, where shapes and colors are deconstructed and recomposed. This approach allows for a revisitation of Van Gogh's work through a contemporary aesthetic, while retaining the emotional essence of the original.
• Black Pixel as a Point of Meditation: The black pixel at the center of the piece acts as a focal point, inviting the viewer into meditative contemplation. This choice symbolizes both darkness and the possibility of transformation, a space where chaos can be transformed into harmony. This contrast between black and the surrounding bright colors illustrates the complexity of human existence, a recurring theme in Van Gogh's work.
3. Themes Explored: Duality, Coexistence, and Transformation:
• Duality: The collection explores the coexistence of opposites: light and darkness, chaos and harmony, tradition and modernity. These tensions are at the heart of Van Gogh’s work, which often depicted scenes that were both peaceful and tormented.
• Coexistence in Nature: Drawing inspiration from nature, a central theme in Van Gogh’s work, the collection illustrates how opposing forces can coexist and complement each other. The vibrant colours and organic shapes evoke an abundance of life, while the black pixel recalls the inevitable presence of darkness.
• Transformation: The collection celebrates the idea of transformation, both in Van Gogh’s work and in the way art can be reinterpreted and reinvented. The digital reinterpretation of L’Arlesienne symbolises this ability of art to evolve and adapt to contemporary contexts.
4. Meditative Contemplation:
• Invitation to Meditation: The black pixel at the centre of the piece acts as a focal point, inviting the viewer to enter a state of contemplation. This meditative approach allows for a deeper connection with the work, encouraging reflection on themes of duality and transformation.
5. Modernity and the Reinvention of Classical Art
• Modern Techniques: Using digital techniques to reinterpret a classic work like L'Arlesienne demonstrates how contemporary tools can enrich our understanding of works from the past. This fusion of tradition and modernity opens new perspectives on Van Gogh's art, while paying homage to his legacy.
• Transcendence of Time: By reinterpreting a Van Gogh work through a digital lens, the collection highlights the ability of art to transcend time and cultural contexts. It shows how classic works can continue to inspire and resonate with future generations.
6. Conclusion: Homage and Reinvention:
• Homage to Van Gogh: The "Xanthopsia" collection pays homage to Van Gogh by exploring the themes that were at the heart of his work: duality, transformation, and the coexistence of opposing forces. It celebrates his ability to capture the complexity of human existence through vibrant colors and expressive forms.
• Artistic Reinvention: By blending digital abstraction with meditative contemplation, this piece is a testament to the power of art to reinvent itself. It shows how modern techniques can enrich our understanding of classical works, while encouraging a deeper connection with art and ourselves.
In sum, this conceptualization of L'Arlesienne in the "Xanthopsia" collection is a profound and contemporary exploration of themes dear to Van Gogh, while offering a new perspective on his work. It invites the viewer to contemplate the tensions and harmonies of life, through a digital interpretation that pays homage to the artist while adapting to "modern realities".
The title "Modern Realities" can also be interpreted as even a reference to the way we perceive reality through media, technologies and social networks. In this sense, the artwork or exhibition can explore how reality is constructed and perceived through these channels, and how abstraction can be used to reveal the underlying truths of modern society.
A tribute to:
L'Arlesienne (Madame Ginoux) - Vincent van Gogh: (1853–1890)
You can see the original work at: Kröller-Müller Museum
format / media / size / speed
2160 x 3840 px / mp4 / 113 MB / 8 fps
a series of 10 editions