Patio in Capri 1925

Konstantin Gorbatov painted "Patio in Capri" with oils on canvas, capturing a sun-drenched scene. The material qualities of oil paint lend a rich texture to the piece, evident in the thick application that mimics the rough surfaces of the patio walls and stone floor. Gorbatov's technique involves layering paint to create depth and shadow, using brushstrokes to give life to the leaves and vines overhead. The labor involved in creating such a large-scale painting, plein air, reflects the artist’s dedication to capturing the essence of Capri. The choice of this everyday scene elevates the ordinary, suggesting a democratization of artistic subject matter, moving away from traditional, staged historical or mythological scenes. By focusing on the material realities of the location, light and shadows, and the labour involved in its production, Gorbatov blurs the lines between traditional landscape painting and a more socially engaged form of art.