Art In Action: Another Translation Of Spring — By Renoir
By Darla McCammon
The impressionists by and large came out of France. Auguste Renoir is recognized as one of those artists who ushered in this mode of painting. See his “Spring Bouquet” to instantly recognize his talent.
Renoir was born in 1841 to parents of modest income. The family moved to increase their financial opportunities and thus the son, Renoir, had the good fortune of living in proximity to the famous Louvre in Paris. He loved music initially but had to leave school for a job in a porcelain factory to help the family financials. He had a natural aptitude in art that was recognized quickly by his new employer who spoke to his family about encouraging that talent. Renoir was able to supplement his training by doing paintings and creating art on hangings for missionaries.
In 1862 he came into contact with artists such as Sisley, Bazille and Claude Monet. He watched, learned, and developed more skills and eventually exhibited in the Paris Salon. Recognition and success did not come quickly, however; as an economy fighting the Franco-Prussian War had little available for luxury things like paintings.
Renoir became associated with Camille Pissarro and Edouard Manet along with other artists who called themselves “impressionists.” The salons kept rejecting most of them in favor of traditional artists, so they joined forces and began to hold their own exhibits. Several years went by with Renoir developing a wide range of subjects and increasing his popularity both with the salon clients as well as those who favored the impressionists. By 1878 he was considered a success in both venues.
Renoir became a spectacular success and lived a full life. He married and his children and grandchildren, even his great-grandson Alexandre Renoir, all followed in his footsteps in one way or another. Late in life Renoir continued to paint in spite of extremely painful rheumatoid arthritis. He was asked why he continued to paint when he had to endure such pain. “The pain passes, but the beauty remains,” he answered.
Please enjoy this work by Renoir and next week we will bring you another spring view by a contemporary of those I’ve shared thus far – Edouard Manet.
Upcoming and Current Events
Please contact Darla McCammon at [email protected] or at (574) 527-4044 if you have an event to mention.
- The Dean Jansen photography exhibit will be on display at Warsaw City Hall through May 31. Meet Jansen in person at the gallery from noon to 4 p.m. Friday, April 12.
- The Gallery at Rua will display the RedBird Studio art exhibit through May 19. Cardinal Services proudly displays some incredible art work under mentor Timothy Young.
- The Lakeland Art Association studio has works by Paul Raimon, Kelly Shoemaker and Stephanie McDairmant on display now through April 27. There will be a reception at the gallery from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. April 13.
- The LAA is hosting a spring art competition. Pick up entry forms at the gallery. Call (574) 267-5568 for details. Paintings will be accepted from noon to 6 p.m. Sunday, April 22.
- On April 13, the LAA will host a free to attend “open studio” at 302 E. Winona Ave., Warsaw.