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"Nu Bleu I" by Henri Matisse
by
Stacey Mackey
The Nu Bleu abstract painting is one of many interpretations. I found that once I revised the painting, there was a creation of an interpretation perpetuated to give a clear meaning to the woman portrayed in the original painting. The disposition, setting and perception gave me a new awareness of just how important our body language is in silent communication.
The Disposition of the original Nu Bleu versus the edited rendition is in great contrast. The original abstract image has a somewhat optimistic disposition. The woman seems to be struggling with some dilemmas in her life, however, she seems to be willing to work through them with some solitude, serenity and critical thought process. Although the observer doesn't know what she may be struggling with, one can only imagine that if she is a woman in America she has many responsibilities which may include; being a mother and wife, having a job/career, family issues, financial issues, moral and ethical value issues. She seems to have a grip on the fact that she just needs time of reflection and allowance of her inner spirit to work through whatever situation(s) she may be going through.
The edited abstract image has a darker outlook and disposition. This woman is obviously in pain. One cannot tell if the pain is emotional or physical, but with the tears, tighter gripping of her head, and perception of pulling herself tighter into the fetal position, she definitely seems to be in despair. Her attitude seems to be one of defeat and desolation.
The setting of the pictures is another aspect of how we view images, whether it be on canvas or in person. The original image is larger in size, positioned with the woman facing the left, fully framed and shadowed. It seems to give the clarity of presence and makes the overall picture seem brighter. The image is positioned vertically and has distinct and concise definition of the woman's image. The woman is a light blue, which also adds to the resilience of her perspective. The clearness of the lines, which outline here, defines a more confident abstractness.
The edited rendition of the image is smaller, more slanted and positioned lower on the page. This enhances the image perception of darkness and despair. There is no box around this image, which draws the observer right in to the woman. The image of the woman is black which also adds to the gloominess of the mood. The woman is choppy and seemingly more detached from herself. The overall outline of the woman is not precise and shows the rigidness of her disposition.
Our overall perception is what we walk away from once coming into focus of an art piece. The perception of the original image could be encouraging and hopeful. If one were struggling with issues or problems, this image could uplift one's spirit into understanding that there are times when everyone struggles with solutions to life's circumstances. It might give the realization that time, thought and prayer are essential to overcoming all situations.
The edited rendition distresses and depresses ones' already emotionally low state. If someone were struggling with issues or problems, this image would give the impression that giving up and failure is the only viable answer. It also could make one experience physical pain through distress and despair. One might have been more hopeful before seeing this image.
Overall, my feelings changed once I revised the image and made it more gloomy. When I first glanced at the Nu Bleu painting, I felt that the woman was down and discouraged, but once I created another rendition, I had the feeling that things are not always as bad as they first seem. I remembered that things could always be worst. This falls in line with my thought that art should pull at the heartstrings of the viewer and make an impacting revelation about ones personal growth.