The Auxerre Cathedral 1907

Gustave Loiseau painted The Auxerre Cathedral, probably with oils, though the specific date remains unknown. Look closely, and you’ll see the paint isn’t trying to hide; it’s right there, almost like little crumbs scattered across the canvas. I find it intriguing how Loiseau allows each stroke to live independently, building the form through a constellation of marks. See how those touches of ochre and cream dance along the façade of the buildings? They give it weight and depth. It’s not about perfection or photographic accuracy; it’s more about capturing a feeling, an impression. Then observe the water at the bottom of the painting and notice how these same marks become more blurred, reflecting the movement and life in the cathedral itself. Loiseau’s approach reminds me of Monet, but with a more grounded, earthy sensibility. Ultimately, it's about how we see, how we feel, and how art can open up new ways of experiencing the world.