The Three Graces 1972

Constantin Piliuta created this painting, The Three Graces, using what looks like oil on canvas, and there's a real sense of spontaneity in the brushstrokes. I love the way the figures emerge from the creamy, textured background. The paint feels almost translucent in places, allowing the weave of the canvas to peek through, which gives the whole piece this really airy, ethereal quality. Look closely at the floral garlands draped around the figures – each dab of color feels so considered. The reds are so vivid! They really draw the eye, like little sparks of joy scattered across the canvas. Piliuta's work reminds me a little of Paula Modersohn-Becker, in the way she captured a kind of raw, earthy beauty. It makes you think about how art is this ongoing conversation, each artist riffing off the ideas of those who came before. It’s nice to be reminded that there’s always room for new interpretations.