#44029 Bernard Cathelin (1919-2004)

The composition presents a fragmented scene dominated by blocks of intense color – magenta, yellow, and white – arranged in a seemingly arbitrary fashion. A figure, rendered with minimal detail and muted skin tones, is partially visible behind the chromatic barriers. The individual appears to be wearing a red garment, its form obscured by the overlapping planes of color.
The arrangement feels deliberately disjointed; theres no clear spatial depth or perspective established. This flattening effect contributes to a sense of abstraction, pushing beyond representational accuracy toward an exploration of formal elements. The figure’s presence is ambiguous – it isn’t central, nor does it seem entirely integrated into the overall design. It appears more as a vestige within the color fields than a subject in its own right.
Textual information occupies the upper-right quadrant. Japanese characters are prominent, accompanied by dates and what seems to be an address. Below this, in Roman script, is the word Cathelin, followed by gallery details and the year 1967. The texts placement suggests a promotional context – likely an exhibition announcement or poster.
The color palette evokes a sense of vibrancy and tension. The juxtaposition of magenta and yellow creates visual friction, while the white areas offer moments of respite but also accentuate the intensity of the surrounding hues. This interplay contributes to a feeling of dynamism and perhaps even unease.
Subtly, the work seems to comment on the relationship between representation and abstraction. The figure’s partial visibility hints at a recognizable form, yet it is simultaneously subsumed by the abstract color fields. This could be interpreted as an exploration of how perception is mediated through constructed systems – in this case, artistic conventions or cultural frameworks. The fragmented nature of the scene might also suggest a sense of displacement or alienation, reflecting a broader societal shift away from traditional modes of representation.