Terrace in Collioure 1930

Zinaida Serebriakova captured this view of the terrace in Collioure with oil on canvas, and it feels like we are right there with her. The painting comes into being in broad strokes of muted yellows, reds and blues. I can imagine the artist pausing, stepping back, and squinting at the scene. The light pouring in seems to dictate the composition. Serebriakova layers the colors so they mix in our eyes, creating depth and texture. Those columns feel solid. It is a moment suspended in time. That streak of sunlight hitting the floor -- maybe it's a metaphor for clarity or revelation? Or maybe it's just a sunbeam! It's hard to tell with painting, isn't it? Anyway, it is a reminder of how painting is an ongoing conversation, inspiring creativity and offering multiple readings.