Sketch for 'The cypresses (Cassis)' 1931

Curator: This is Rupert Bunny’s "Sketch for 'The cypresses (Cassis)'", an oil painting dating back to 1931. Editor: Wow, immediately, I feel like I'm peering into a secret garden, a really dreamy one. Curator: Bunny, an Australian artist, painted this en plein air, capturing the light and atmosphere of the French countryside. This period marked his long expatriation in Europe, far from Australia. Editor: That explains the light! There’s this gorgeous, soft focus; the trees are sort of framing everything. I almost feel hidden, safe. Curator: It's evocative of the Impressionist style, don’t you think? Note the broken brushstrokes and focus on light. This choice reflects a departure from academic art towards capturing fleeting moments and emotional experiences. Editor: Definitely impressionistic. And I can practically smell the pines! I love how he hints at the house in the background, tucked away and partially obscured, creating a sense of depth and mystery. Curator: The artwork certainly suggests a visual dance. Bunny, during his formative period, embraced elements of Symbolism, which influenced the direction of Australian art. But he chose the Impressionist landscape here. What is its possible reading? Editor: I feel this certain sense of harmony; it seems very well composed and balanced to me. It invites tranquility and contemplation. And there’s a little drama with those cypress trees! Tall dark trees are watching us. Curator: Precisely, perhaps what seems casual reflects an artist at ease. The "Sketch" could offer an insightful glance at Bunny's evolving interaction with his adopted landscape. Editor: It definitely sparks joy, maybe because it seems unfinished, allowing my own imagination to fill in the gaps and participate in the scene. It really draws you into the place! Curator: Ultimately, Bunny offers us more than just scenery; it's an immersive experience. Editor: A perfect snapshot that encapsulates an emotional world!