Cris et chuchotements

Comment

Comment by Resident Curator on December 18, 2014 at 8:09pm

Curator’s Comments: 

Cris et chuchotements (I believe translates to “cries and whispers”). I find this piece to be a mysterious single scene narrative, sharing some psychological devices and elements from Edward Hopper and more contemporary painter Paula Rego.  The narrow entryway into the happening creates theatrical intrigue and secrecy- attaching a conspiratorial quality to our voyeuristic entry into the private bedroom scene.  The dark colors enhance a mood of anonymity and possibly foreboding, despite the lack of actual violent action between the couple. While his gesture is of universal alarm or exasperation, it’s unclear as to what’s unfolding- sort of like hearing only parts of an intense but whispered conversation.  While the viewer isn’t given any more clues as to the nature of the environment or incident unfolding, the rather sparse interior still strongly conveys a private domestic space. While they could be in a hotel, the type of door frame and hallway suggests an older house.  But part of the appeal of the painting is for the viewer to fill in the story.