The Singers 1893

Félix Edouard Vallotton created this woodcut titled "The Singers". Observe the motif of collective singing, central here; a symbol laden with historical and cultural significance. The open mouth and musical score is reminiscent of religious iconography, and the angel choir. The notion of collective expression can be found in ancient Greek choruses, participants sang and danced in unison, expressing shared emotions and communal values. This powerful image also appears in revolutionary anthems. Consider how the act of singing together is imbued with social cohesion and identity. In "The Singers", Vallotton shows a crowd seemingly united by the music. But, does it truly unite them? Note the faces of the people as they participate in the singing: lost in thought, or looking at each other with judgement. The recurring motif of collective performance reminds us of how cultural rituals become ingrained in our collective memory, shaping social dynamics across time.