The Lovers 1928

René Magritte painted "The Lovers" using oil paints, a material with a rich history in fine art, allowing for subtle gradations and a smooth surface. But the image itself presents a different story. The smooth, almost photographic realism contrasts sharply with the disturbing subject: two figures shrouded in cloth, their faces obscured as they attempt to kiss. Fabric drapes and conceals, acting as both a tangible material and a barrier to connection. It raises questions about the nature of the relationship. How can we find intimacy when we can't see or touch? Magritte’s precise, meticulous application of paint further enhances the surreal quality. The traditional technique serves to heighten the unsettling effect of the image. By juxtaposing these elements, he asks us to question our assumptions about art, love, and the hidden realities beneath the surface of everyday life. This goes beyond the traditional distinction between art and craft, it goes beyond the surface of what is seen.