Village Procession 1787

"Village Procession" was painted by Francisco de Goya, likely in the late 18th or early 19th century, using oil on canvas. Goya's brushwork is immediately apparent. He applies the paint loosely, creating a sense of movement and immediacy. This directness was a departure from the smooth, polished surfaces favored by academic painting at the time. The very lack of finish becomes part of the picture, as the artist focuses on the event itself. Though his works can be considered high art, there is something democratic about Goya's approach. The way he quickly and expressively applies the paint, prioritizing the scene's energy over precise detail, democratizes art. Rather than perfecting every element, he prioritizes emotion and the communal experience. In this way, Goya bridges a gap between formal art and the visceral reality of everyday life.