I chose Edouard Manet's last major painting, "A Bar at the Folies-Bergere". Folies-Bergere is a large nightclub with bars arranged around a theater that offered circus, musical and vaudeville acts. When I first saw this painting, I was reminded of one of my favorite movies, Moulin Rouge. In the center of the painting, there is a barmaid that is staring out at the viewer, placing the onlooker in the role of a customer. She is not smiling and appears almost depressed by her surroundings. Folies-Bergere was a place for entertainment and fun, which can seen in this painting through the reflection of the crowd from the mirror behind her. Also in the mirror is the reflection of the barmaid, which seems to show a different side of her than the view from the front. The mirror shows her leaning in towards the patron, meeting his gaze as well as the disappearance of the physical and psychological distance. The text suggests that Manet wanted to contrast the longing for happiness and intimacy, reflected mirage like in the mirror, with the disappointing reality of ordinary existence that directly confronts the viewer of the painting and I couldn't agree more. From time to time I have put up a wall in order to protect myself from harsh realities and from emotional pain and felt that it was easier to hide behind a barrier than it is to confront these insecurities. However, it is not healthy to bottle up emotions and to run away from your problems. This painting is a reminder that we must deal with negative situations and feelings, before they get the best of us.
I like the explanation you give for this painting. It is always interesting to see how artists position subjects in order to convey a bigger message. I definitely know what you mean with putting up walls and protecting yourself; I do it all the time and bottling things up can only lead to bad things. It is always good to talk about your problems because then its out of your system and you can always feel a little bit better!
ReplyDeleteDear Melissa,
ReplyDeleteI have really enjoyed blogging with you this semester and hope to be in class with you again next fall. I will miss being in this class! It has been great!
Have a great summer,
Kimberlie
I almost picked this one for my last blog. I really like how it's not only a depiction of something different (i.e., I don't generally think of a bar when I think of art), and it's drawn from the perspective of someone who's standing right there.
ReplyDeleteI only wish it were more realistic in texture.
I agree, contempaltion of art can help us reflect and "see" things in a new light. Thanks for your honest and insightful blogs.
ReplyDeleteTed