#43967 Bernard Cathelin (1919-2004)

The composition presents a still life arrangement centered around a vase brimming with yellow flowers. The background is dominated by a warm, saturated yellow hue, which extends down one side as a vertical plane, creating a sense of enclosure and emphasizing the central subject. A horizontal surface, rendered in a reddish-orange tone, occupies the lower portion of the canvas, serving as a table or ledge upon which the vase rests.
The flowers themselves are depicted with loose, expressive brushstrokes, suggesting an abundance and vitality rather than precise botanical accuracy. Their color is vibrant, contributing to the overall feeling of warmth and optimism. The vase is characterized by its contrasting blue and white pattern, providing visual relief against the surrounding yellow tones. Its form appears somewhat simplified, prioritizing decorative effect over realistic representation.
The artist’s application of paint exhibits a textured quality; visible brushstrokes contribute to the paintings tactile feel and reinforce the impression of spontaneity. The limited palette – primarily yellows, oranges, and blues – creates a harmonious visual unity while also generating a sense of intensity.
Subtly, the arrangement evokes themes of domesticity and simple pleasures. The flowers suggest growth, renewal, and beauty found in everyday objects. The enclosed space created by the background plane might be interpreted as representing introspection or a focus on inner experience. The deliberate simplification of forms and the expressive use of color point towards an interest in conveying emotional resonance rather than photographic realism. Ultimately, the work seems to celebrate the inherent aesthetic qualities of ordinary subjects through a distinctive visual language.