Jardin Sous la Pluie 1967

Curator: Ceri Richards created "Jardin Sous la Pluie," or "Garden in the Rain," in 1967. It's part of the Tate collection. What strikes you first? Editor: The brown background and sharp diagonal lines feel unsettling, as if nature is under assault. It’s a poignant image, tinged with a subtle dread. Curator: It’s interesting to consider how this piece relates to Richards' broader exploration of nature and the human condition in post-war Britain. The iconography of rain, often a symbol of cleansing, is here depicted with a certain violence. Editor: Absolutely. Rain can represent sorrow, but it can also wash away the old, giving way to new growth. The stylized floral motif underneath suggests resilience and hope. Curator: And it’s crucial to situate this in the context of environmental concerns that began surfacing during this era. The piece could be interpreted as a commentary on industrialization and ecological damage. Editor: Yes, it is a testament to the enduring power of symbols to carry complex, and even contradictory meanings across time. Thank you for this illuminating perspective. Curator: Likewise. It enriches the understanding of Richards' work within its cultural moment.