Blind Singers 1912

Robert Henri painted these Blind Singers with oil on canvas at some point in his career, and what strikes me is the earthy palette, the browns and yellows that create such a warm atmosphere. Henri really lets you see the process, the brushstrokes are visible and confident. The texture in this painting is just beautiful, isn't it? Look at the way he's built up the paint on the face of the singer on the left, those small, choppy strokes. It's not about perfection, it's about capturing a feeling, a moment. And the way the light catches the guitar strings... it's just gorgeous. It is as though he is less interested in perfect realism, and more interested in creating an authentic emotional experience. Henri’s loose brushwork reminds me of Manet. Both artists are less concerned with detail, and more with the overall impression. And just like Manet, Henri seems to be saying that art is about seeing, feeling, and representing the world in a way that is true to your own experience.