Still Life 1939

Kmetty János made this painting of a ‘Still Life’ and we can see that his process involved layering colours and marks with deliberate and visible brushstrokes. The joy of artmaking lies in this continuous exploration, where each layer informs the next, and the painting evolves through a series of decisions and revisions. Here, the surface is built up with thick, opaque paint, creating a tactile quality that invites you to run your fingers across it. Notice how the strokes around the vase of flowers have a certain energy, capturing a fleeting moment. It reminds me of Matisse in its bold use of colour and simplified forms, but with a uniquely Hungarian sensibility. Ultimately, this painting embraces ambiguity, inviting you to bring your own experiences and associations to the work. There’s no right or wrong way to see it, just an open invitation to explore and connect.