Clair Obscur 10/2017 – Stella de Belligny

The work “Clair Obscur 10/2017” by Stella de Belligny is part of her series of visual explorations that capture the tension between light and darkness, a recurring theme in her work. This painting illustrates the artist's skill in manipulating contrasts of tone and texture to evoke mysterious and emotionally charged landscapes.

Exploration of contrasts and textures: The work is distinguished by its mastery of the contrast between bright and dark areas. The pops of bright white at the top of the composition immediately draw the eye, creating a focal point that illuminates the scene like a source of natural light. This light spills over darker areas, where shades of brown, black and gray intertwine to create depth and visual complexity. The expressive brushstrokes and thick texture of the paint give a tactile quality to the work, reminiscent of rugged rocks and natural formations.

Lines of force and dynamism: The composition is marked by diagonal lines and dynamic brush movements that cross the canvas. These lines evoke a stormy nature scene, perhaps a weathered mountain or cliff, which adds a sense of movement and energy to the image. This dynamic contrasts with the stability often associated with the earth, suggesting that even the strongest elements are subject to the forces of change and time.

Mood and atmosphere: The painting exudes a dramatic and introspective atmosphere, typical of the “Clair Obscur” series. The play of light and shadow invites the viewer to contemplate not only the visual aspect of the painting, but also its emotional implication. The dominant shadow in the lower part creates a feeling of depth, almost of an abyss, while the light above could symbolize hope, knowledge or revelation. This dichotomy between light and darkness reflects universal themes such as the struggle between light and darkness, the unknown and the known.

Reflection on the environment and well-being: The canvas is not only a visual study; it encourages reflection on nature and our connection to it. By depicting natural elements in earthy tones and raw textures, the artist evokes an intimate relationship with the environment, suggesting that the viewer reconnects with the raw power and stark beauty of nature. This approach contributes to the well-being of the viewer, providing a moment of calm and meditation, a pause to appreciate the beauty of the natural world and its complexities.