Synthesis of movement 1914

Giacomo Balla made this painting, Synthesis of movement, with what looks like long brushstrokes in a warm, limited palette. What I love about the piece is the way you can see the artist’s process. The paint application varies, sometimes transparent, sometimes opaque, creating a sense of depth and movement. It's fascinating how a simple gesture, like a single brushstroke, can convey so much energy. Looking at the upper left of the painting, the brushstrokes are applied so swiftly, and the paint is dragged across the surface. It gives the feeling that the artist was trying to capture a fleeting moment or a burst of energy. Balla's exploration of movement reminds me of the work of Bridget Riley, who also used abstract forms to create a sense of visual vibration. Both artists understood that art is not just about representing the world, but about creating new ways of seeing and experiencing it. It embraces ambiguity and multiple interpretations.