Study of scene decoration for "The Rite of Spring" 1944

This scene decoration for "The Rite of Spring," by Nicholas Roerich uses colour in such an unnatural way. The greens and yellows seem to almost vibrate off the surface. It feels like a dreamscape where the colours are a bit off, but somehow right at the same time. I think that finding that balance is what every artist is trying to achieve. The texture of this piece looks velvety, with layered strokes that create depth. The hills are built up with different hues, giving them a sense of volume and weight. It reminds me of building a painting, one layer at a time. I like the small pops of orange on the trees in the foreground as they really make you focus on the front of the image. Roerich's work reminds me a bit of Marsden Hartley, especially in the way he uses simplified forms and vibrant colours. Both artists tap into a sense of something primal and timeless. These aren't just landscapes; they're landscapes of the mind.