Kiss the Earth. Action 1st (1st version) Roerich N.K. (Part 2)

The composition presents a landscape dominated by a solitary tree positioned centrally within the frame. The trees form is stylized and angular, its branches reaching outwards in a dynamic, almost frantic gesture. Its foliage appears fragmented, rendered with sharp lines and blocks of color that suggest movement or struggle against an unseen force.
Behind the tree, a body of water – a small lake or pond – is depicted with a flat, simplified shape, its surface colored in shades of purple and blue. The surrounding terrain rises gently to form rolling hills, delineated by thick outlines and painted in hues of yellow and green. A line of dark, stylized trees punctuates the horizon, creating a sense of depth while maintaining the overall flattened perspective.
The sky above is rendered with muted tones – browns and grays – and lacks any discernible detail, contributing to an atmosphere of quiet solemnity or perhaps even foreboding. The artist employed a limited palette, relying on earth tones and contrasting blues/purples to define forms and create visual interest.
Theres a deliberate lack of naturalism in the rendering; shapes are simplified, colors are heightened, and perspective is distorted. This suggests an emphasis on emotional or symbolic content rather than realistic representation. The tree’s posture – its reaching branches – could be interpreted as a gesture of supplication, resilience, or perhaps even defiance against the elements. The isolation of the tree within this landscape might symbolize vulnerability or endurance in the face of adversity.
The paintings subtexts seem to revolve around themes of nature, struggle, and solitude. It evokes a sense of quiet contemplation, inviting reflection on the relationship between humanity and the natural world, and the challenges inherent in existence. The stylized rendering lends itself to multiple interpretations, allowing for a personal engagement with the work’s underlying meaning.