Capri 

Konstantin Gorbatov captured this view of Capri with oil on canvas. Gorbatov left Russia after the Revolution, eventually settling in Italy. In “Capri,” we see more than just a landscape; we see a longing for an idyllic world, painted during a time of great upheaval in his homeland. The bright colors and lively brushstrokes can be seen as a form of escapism from the harsh realities of exile and political unrest. Gorbatov presents us with a vision of Italy, celebrated for its beauty and light, as a refuge from the turmoil of his time. Interestingly, such depictions often gloss over the everyday lives of the local population, focusing instead on the picturesque. The artist seems to embrace a sense of timelessness, which perhaps reflects his emotional need for stability and peace amidst the uncertainty of his own life. The painting offers a moment to consider how personal experiences shape artistic expression, and how art can serve as both a reflection of and an escape from the world around us.