Les deux vaches et la paysanne 1970

Jean Hugo made "Les deux vaches et la paysanne" with paint and probably brushes, though maybe a palette knife too, the surface has a dry, matte quality. You know, painting is so much about just layering one thing on top of another, trying to make sense of it all as you go along. I’m really drawn to how the trees here are these dark green, almost cartoon-like forms. They’re like dark curtains framing this little village scene, with the buildings stacked up and flattened. Then, there’s that little stream winding down, anchoring the composition, and that small grey cloud. It’s this odd, compelling mix of naivety and sophistication. It reminds me a little of Milton Avery in its simplicity and how he renders objects and landscape. Both artists share a playful use of color to create a flattened yet inviting world. But it’s uniquely Jean Hugo, too. There’s a certain strangeness here. A quiet, quirky observation of the world. Isn't it interesting how paintings can hold so much, without telling us everything?