Composition 1960

Jean Messagier's "Composition" presents us with dominant hues of red and earthy tones. The brushstrokes evoke an impression of fluidity, almost reminiscent of waves. This symbol of water—a fundamental element of life and renewal—has appeared across countless cultures and epochs. In ancient Egypt, the Nile was not only a lifeline but a deity, and we can think of similar examples such as the Greek Oceanus. The continuous flow of water has been tied to the subconscious mind. The motif reappears in various guises throughout art history, representing the ebb and flow of existence. The recurring usage of this symbol allows it to evolve over time. These symbols engage us on a primal level, stirring echoes of ancient myths and shared human experiences. Like a dream, Messagier’s abstraction taps into our collective unconscious, revealing the non-linear, cyclical progression of these symbols as they resurface, evolve, and take on new meanings in different historical contexts.