"In our life there is a single color, as on an artist's palette, which provides the meaning of life and art.
It is the color of love."
- Marc Chagall
The genius of Marc Chagall's work is undeniable. What is more amazing to me, though, is his story. As a young boy in the Russian Empire, Marc knew nothing of art. His family was fairly poor, and they worked very hard to keep all nine children warm and fed. He discovered "art" when he saw a schoolmate's drawings. Marc tried sketching, and found that he was quite good at it. His passion only grew, and he realized that this was his path in life. The local art teacher took this talented and curious boy under his wing, and taught him the basics of realistic painting. But realism did not interest this dreamer.
By age 23, Marc had made it to Paris. His dream had come true, and he was happy "just breathing the Parisian air". He also studied art intensively, and began to formulate his unique avant-garde style. Chagall was one of the greatest influences on the birth of the Surrealist movement.
He loved painting Paris
He loved painting his home town
Guess where the title (not the story) of The Fiddler On the Roof musical comes from?
And he loved painting his beloved...Bella
"Only love interests me, and I am only in contact with things that revolve around love."
- Chagall
Later in life, Chagall had worked with almost every artistic medium.
Stained Glass
Stage Sets
Murals..this one is at the Paris Opera
He was a visionary, a genius, a romantic, a painter of dreams. He lived and painted freely, and never lost that spark of wonder, despite extraordinarily difficult hardships and losses. I encourage anyone who would like to learn more about this fascinating, inspirational man, to look HERE. There are quite a few resources to choose from.
Chagall's dream-like and poetic visual masterpieces remind me of the magic of the incredibly talented poet, artist, and dear friend..Anita at Castles Crowns and Cottages...please visit her beautiful world. Congratulations, Anita, on the opening of your spectacular Etsy shop!
Being the romantic that I am, the enchanting post at Bilancia Designs took my breath away! The wonderful Lisa is a very gifted artist...please visit her magical dreamland!
Wishing everyone a beautiful week....
