A couple of years ago I did a Favorites Friday centered around paintings, and I thought it would be fun to revisit the theme. I’m a slightly compulsive museum visitor, in that I like to write down the names of the paintings I like best. I have a long list of paintings that resonated with me when I visited the Musee d’Orsay in Paris, and I thought I’d share a few today.
As may not surprise you, I tend to like paintings best when I can find a story in them…
Danseuses Bleues by Edgar Degas – This is a nice little moment backstage among the dancers of the Opera Garnier, and I think we know I have a particular interest in that area, yes? 🙂 I do love how Degas captures human moments of the dancers, yet with that ethereal style too.
Julie Manet with Cat by Auguste Renoir – I’ve felt attached to Julie Manet ever since I became fascinated by a different painting of her, Julie Dreaming, painted by her mother, Berthe Morisot. In fact, the heroine of The Wanderers is named after her. Considering that and the fact that The Wanderers also features a talking cat, you may see why this painting appeals to me–and Renoir is one of my favorite painters besides.
The Church at Auvers by Vincent Van Gogh – I have no high-brow reason for liking this painting (though I always liked Van Gogh). You see, one of my very favorite episodes of Doctor Who centers around this painting. When I was standing in front of it at the d’Orsay, I looked around at the other people gathered, and I so wanted to say, “Doctor Who fan? Anyone?” but alas, I didn’t quite dare. I did check for a monster in the window (there isn’t one).
The Sphinx and the Chimera by Louis Weldon Hawkins – I haven’t the slightest idea what’s going on in this painting, but wouldn’t it make a wonderful cover for a science fiction novel? Maybe fantasy, but somehow I get a sci fi vibe from it.
It’s a very long list of paintings from the d’Orsay, but I think that will do for today. 🙂
I agree, The Sphinx and the Chimera does have a science fiction cover feel to it. And chimera does have an interesting science connotation to it as well. Beautiful painting.
I’m glad I’m not the only one to think so! Now if I could just think of a good plot to go with the painting…
The D’Orsay’s artwork is incredible, especially it’s Impressionist collection. Any travelers who pass through Paris without stopping at the D’Orsay are cheating themselves. Thanks for sharing a few of the best.
I like the painting of Julie Manet and the cat, too, I didn’t know your heroine was named after her! That’s cool. The Musee d’Orsay is heaven for anyone who loves Impressionist art. It has an amazing collection displayed in a beautiful space.