#44018 Bernard Cathelin (1919-2004)

The composition presents a landscape dominated by structures and foliage rendered in a palette of ochre, brown, and muted yellows. Here we see a cluster of buildings, seemingly houses or small workshops, arranged somewhat haphazardly across the middle ground. Their forms are simplified, almost block-like, with minimal detail suggesting windows or doors. The roofs appear flat and uniformly dark, contributing to their monolithic presence.
Behind these structures rises a taller, more elongated form – perhaps a tower or silo – that pierces the skyline. It is similarly abstracted, its shape defined by broad strokes of paint rather than precise lines. Surrounding this built environment are trees and shrubs, depicted with loose brushwork that conveys texture and density without attempting realistic representation. The foliage appears to be in a state of dormancy or transition, given the muted colors and lack of vibrant green hues.
The artist employed an impasto technique throughout the painting; thick layers of paint create a tactile surface and contribute to the overall sense of weight and solidity. Light seems to emanate from behind the buildings, casting long shadows that further flatten the perspective and emphasize the two-dimensionality of the scene.
A subtle horizontal band of red appears near the bottom edge, acting as a visual anchor and adding a touch of warmth to the otherwise earthy tones. The signature in the lower right corner is small and unobtrusive, suggesting a deliberate effort to avoid drawing attention away from the overall composition.
Subtly, the painting evokes a sense of isolation and quietude. The simplified forms and limited color range contribute to an atmosphere of melancholy or introspection. While theres no overt narrative, one might interpret the scene as representing a rural community undergoing change – perhaps facing economic hardship or environmental challenges – as suggested by the muted colors and somewhat dilapidated appearance of the buildings. The absence of human figures reinforces this feeling of abandonment and stillness. Ultimately, the work seems to explore themes of memory, loss, and the passage of time within a specific place.