old family blog

Chagall in the Hills

Clem’s parents dropped off their new Volvo at the port near the airport to be shipped to the states. From what his dad told us, it takes between 3-5 weeks for them to get it back in the states. When they got back to the hotel we headed out to visit the Chagall Museum here in Nice. The museum is located up in the hills overlooking Nice.

We pulled up to these blue doors, which remind me of the new color hitting the runways for spring/summer 06 – I labeled the color techno color blue. When we got inside we started off in room with renditions of the Old Testament. I think. Several of the pieces were very amazing. My favorite out of the collection was the one with Noah and the arc. With the yellow goat and all the people disappearing into the mix of colors.

Clem’s mother Nancy Identified several of the paintings and their themes. I was very impressed, sadly growing up and going to CCD did not stick permanently. The next collection of works was part of his lovers and wedding theme. Several paintings he did over his life fell in to this theme. His use of vibrant reds and mix of theme is evident.

My overall favorite in this collection was the trapeze artist over the horse. What is really interesting about this painting is the similarities of Chagall’s rendition and shapes to Francesco Clemente. Another painting who I adore and love. If you have seen the movie “Great Expectations” with Gwyneth Paltrow and Ethan Hawke, all the artwork Hawke’s character did was actually done Clemente.

Two other pieces in the museum to note was the mosaic tile wall in the reflection pool courtyard. I suggest attending the museum either morning for late afternoon. The 12 o’clock reflection really kills you viewing of this magnificent piece. The other is the woven tapestry, unfortunately I did not write the weavers name down and I cannot figure it out by enhancing the photo I took. Overall I love the museum collection although I was a little disappointed it was such a small museum.

I don’t think Clem enjoyed this collection as much as I did. Although he isn't a bid fan of Chagall as I am, he was a trooper though. He did like some of the pieces in the small exhibition of new artists. I fell in love with the black painting of the two women and the campfire. Great use of color!

posted by turlie @ 5:15 PM