October 1955

Curator: The artwork before us is Roger Bissière's "October," painted in 1955. It's an abstract painting, with clear geometric and abstract patterns, reflective of Art Informel and modernism. Editor: My first impression is that of an urban map seen from above. The ochre palette gives the work a very grounded feel, almost earthy, yet there's also an undercurrent of melancholy. Curator: Bissière, during this period, experimented greatly with the textures of his materials. You see how the painting seems built from layers, almost collage-like, suggesting an engagement with the physical act of applying paint to canvas. What's interesting is the balance Bissière strikes between the rough, tactile qualities and a certain orderliness. Editor: I see numerous cross-like symbols distributed throughout the composition. Could these crosses relate to themes of spirituality, perhaps the cyclical nature of seasons? I’m intrigued by how they sit amidst these architectural forms as though integrating life and death into this town or urban depiction. Curator: The name "October" perhaps references the turning of the seasons and is tied to nature, or perhaps Bissière found his materials most receptive in the cool, crisp air of Autumn? Thinking of it as material production responding to its environment can allow us to imagine more. Editor: The arrangement of dark and light blocks almost create a hidden script, each shape acting as a glyph within a symbolic alphabet that maybe points to the season of changes: life's transitions or perhaps its harvest of life. The choice of using ochre to denote “October” specifically alludes to shedding, whether this relates to life or death. Curator: Bissière's use of materials allows us to engage in material discourse; the colors, texture, and the interplay of forms—each plays a vital role in producing meaning. "October" doesn't just represent a season; it presents the physicality and social conditions that framed his creative process. Editor: Absolutely, there is that material presence to be felt and the presence of symbolic depth; this is a thought-provoking piece. Thank you for shining a light on its deeper nature. Curator: And thank you, for unlocking new interpretations; "October" appears as so much more, now.