Cactus. Mers Du Sud 1941

Curator: So, here we have Paul Jacoulet's "Cactus. Mers Du Sud," a woodblock print dating from 1941. Jacoulet, though French by birth, spent much of his life immersed in Asian cultures, particularly Japan, deeply influencing his artistic style. Editor: Wow, that's striking! My first thought is, if Georgia O'Keeffe had a love affair with Japanese prints, this might be their love child. It's got that bold botanical vibe but with a totally unique Eastern flair. Curator: Precisely! Jacoulet positioned himself somewhat outside the traditional Japanese ukiyo-e movement, infusing it with his Western perspective and creating a style that's often categorized under Japonisme. You can really see how he appropriates the style. He had strong colonial ties in Asia, which affected his approach to his artwork. Editor: Absolutely. And there's a playfulness here that's infectious! Look at that fat, almost comical caterpillar nestled amongst the vivid blooms. And that bright yellow and green butterfly just makes the red pop. Curator: I see Jacoulet using those dynamic colours strategically, typical of Ukiyo-e colour printing. He creates a very striking scene out of a rather hostile looking subject. Cactus, in particular, are seen as imposing subjects. Editor: Hostile yes, but the delicate rendering of the blossoms juxtaposed with those spiky pads it creates such a cool harmony of strength and beauty. Does it remind you of that life finds a way concept? The piece sings. Curator: And it speaks to the era, as well. The pre-war period was an uneasy mix of exoticism, internationalism and creeping imperialism. It’s a strange dichotomy that Jacoulet embodies in this print. He was both a part of, and apart from, the culture that inspired him. Editor: Which just makes it all the more intriguing, right? Like a vibrant visual echo of a complicated moment in history. I can appreciate this print more knowing its cultural impact and importance. Curator: Indeed. Jacoulet gives us so much more than a simple depiction of nature here; it gives us an interesting moment in time. Editor: Exactly! It’s one of those pieces that lingers in your mind long after you’ve walked away, provoking something.