Art Analysis

For years, I have been drawn to things that break the mold that defines what is normal or what is the usual in regards from my fashion, music tastes and how I express myself to the world. As such, abstract art is such an interesting concept to me. That’s not to say that other works of art are interesting, but this type of art really sparks my imagination to things that resonate with me. In regards to this blog post, Spanish artist Joan Miro’s Ciphers and Constellations, in Love with a Woman, painted in 1941 (1), is a work of art that is a testament to Miro’s skill and to the originality of abstract art as a whole. This watercolor and graphite painting makes use of his skill as a painter through the use of very defined lines and shapes. This is a painting I would be happy to have in my home!

Ciphers and Constellations, in Love with a Woman is one of Joan Miro’s most well-known paintings. He makes use of simple techniques to create this unique piece, most notable are the curved lines, circles and the uses of red and black paint on a mostly beige background. Occasional blue, green and yellow are used as well to draw the eyes to certain parts of the painting such as the eyes which represent the face of the women. Small, straight lines join together to create small stars littered throughout the painting. Miro’s skill in abstract art is expressed in how carefree the painting is with its curved lines which signify motion and freedom. Other straight lines connect to form more geometrical shapes conjoined with circles. These are the only parts of the painting which have structure and order, creating an interesting contrast with the rest of the painting.

Many interpretations can be made concerning what part of the painting relates to the women or what part relates to the constellations, making the title quite relevant as it is quite a mystery as to whats happening. I think this is a perfect example of how abstract art should be: not necessarily defined as something whole or coherent and definitely up to interpretation. Splashes of red and blue on the background of beige do an amazing job of drawing the eyes to various parts of the painting that might otherwise have been given no thought. A variety of emotions can be seen throughout, especially as the colors of red and blue represent such polar opposites. This can bring emotions of passion and sadness to a single painting without fear of conflict as they don’t draw too much attention away from the main features and shapes. I find this painting to be full of depth and character, which I believe is Miro’s purpose in this piece of art.

References:

1. Miró, Joan. “Ciphers and Constellations in Love with a Woman.” The Art Institute of Chicago. www.artic.edu/artworks/79593/ciphers-and-constellations-in-love-with-a-woman.