The Conversation 1895

Curator: Pierre-Auguste Renoir's "The Conversation," painted in 1895, is an oil on canvas genre scene currently held in a private collection. What's your immediate impression? Editor: The flurry of brushstrokes give it this fantastic shimmer; like catching a fleeting moment in the sun. It looks intensely focused, even private—the sort of encounter only art makes accessible. Curator: Note how Renoir uses the oil paint so loosely, particularly in the backgrounds, creating a sense of depth with layers and layers of paint and tone. The visible brushstrokes are characteristic of Impressionism. The making of the picture is evident; its production apparent. Editor: For me, the figures really draw the eye. There is an intensity in their exchange, perhaps they are young women at a transitional time in their lives? Note how their dresses –the bright red and sunny yellow – act as emblems of sorts? Curator: It’s interesting to see Renoir taking on a subject matter like this late in his career, really cementing himself within these classic themes like friendship or childhood. Consider too the relationship of women to clothing manufacturing in France during this period: the rise of the department stores selling the new ready-to-wear clothing, and all that implied about the economics of art and art production. Editor: Their very poses carry meaning. The figure in yellow turned slightly inward with the other reaching out with that hand in such an assertive gesture; like some unspoken, urgent request. Curator: Thinking about what art meant and represented at this point in time. Editor: Looking closer, this painting shows that conversation, in all of its emotional detail, and quiet turmoil is also beautiful. Curator: Indeed, reflecting on the conditions that produce something deemed "beautiful."