Norvège Brune Ottual 1978

Olivier Debré made this painting, Norvège Brune Ottual, with what looks like oil on canvas, and right away I'm drawn into its process. There's this push and pull between control and chance, like he's letting the paint have a say in things. The colors here are so earthy and muted, lots of browns and greens, but then BAM! You get these jolts of yellow and blue that just electrify the whole thing. Look closely and you'll see how thin the paint is in some areas, almost like a watercolor wash, and then in others it's thick and gloppy, with visible brushstrokes. Notice that drip of yellow paint on the right side. It is like a rebellious act against the overall smoothness of the painting, but also a reminder that art is a conversation, and that there are no rules, really. It makes me think a little of Helen Frankenthaler, but in a totally Debre way, and reminds me that art is an ongoing conversation.