The Sower 1940

Vela Zanetti painted "The Sower" with what looks like oils. I'm really drawn to the warm palette, that mix of browns, oranges, and reds. It's like the whole scene is bathed in the setting sun. Look closely at the sower's arm; the artist isn't trying to fool us with realism, but instead, the brushstrokes are visible, building up the form with layers of color. I love how the artist captures the weight of the bag and the tension in his hand as he prepares to scatter the seeds. This piece reminds me of Courbet, but with a more modern feel. It celebrates the everyday and elevates the act of sowing into something almost heroic. It’s not just about the literal action, but the potential and hope that comes with it.