Noël au Noirda 

Maurice Boitel painted this winter coastal scene, Noël au Noirda, using oil on canvas. At first glance, the composition is dominated by a cool palette of whites and grays, punctuated by the darker tones of the sea. This limited palette evokes a sense of stillness. The broadly applied brushstrokes create texture, contrasting the rugged coastline with the softness of the snow. Boitel's structuring of the scene draws on post-impressionist strategies and flattens the perspective. The stark white cliffs and snowy foreground are brought forward, disrupting traditional depth. Human figures are present, but reduced in scale, accentuating the vastness and power of the natural landscape. This interplay between form and nature may reflect a broader artistic engagement with existential themes. The painting suggests a discourse on humanity's place within the larger framework of existence. Consider how the formal elements and the muted colour palette, contribute to its interpretation, reminding us of the power of landscape to evoke contemplation and challenge conventional perceptions of space and presence.