Tiger 

Antonio Ligabue created this striking painting, "Tiger," using oil on canvas. The way he applied the paint is key to its impact. Ligabue wasn't formally trained, and his direct, almost crude application of paint gives the image its raw power. Notice the thick, visible brushstrokes, especially in the tiger’s fur. The texture isn't just descriptive; it conveys a sense of untamed energy. The vibrant orange hues, combined with the stark black stripes, create a visually arresting image. The tiger's snarling expression, teeth bared, is rendered with an almost obsessive attention to detail. Ligabue lived a difficult life, marked by poverty and mental illness. His art became his refuge, his way of connecting with the world. By focusing on the material qualities of paint and the directness of his technique, he bypassed academic conventions and created something truly visceral. This painting reminds us that art isn't just about skill; it's about the intent and the story embedded in the making.