I always appreciate an in-depth look into a painting. I like to learn about the painter's life and how a particular painting fits into it. I like to learn about the techniques used to create the art work. And, I like to learn about how the painting matters within the art world.
When you step into the room at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, you will see two paintings of irises and two paintings of roses. And immediately you will pick up on the idea of a dialogue - a dialogue between art pieces and their color stories. Van Gogh painted these flowers with intent: he sought to impart a "calm, unremitting ardor" to his "last touch of the brush." Each ensemble has a horizontal and a vertical piece. One of the pieces shows the flower in full bloom; the other shows passage of time with a few leaves and blooms fallen off the stems.
This exhibition reunites the four paintings for the first time since the artist's death and is timed to coincide with the blooming of the flowers that captured his attention. This study of Vincent van Gogh's love for flowers is a real treat for art lovers. Stop by if you have a chance!