043. PAPALOUKAS Spyros (1892-1957)

‘Mt. Athos -The Skete of St. Andrew’

Signed oil on canvas laid on board 82×62 cm

€ 8.000 – 10.000

A particularly dazzling work by Papaloukas that radiates vitality by walking on a tightrope between tradition and avant-garde. A warm, sweet light, acting as catalyst for the colors brings out the painterly qualities as well as a sense of purity in the tensions of contrasting yet juxtaposed hues. In the composition of the landscape, the chromatic harmony of blue gains dynamism as the red clouds roil with suffocating energy; the contrast of form and color only intensifies the effect. The same suffocating trapped energy is also conveyed by the strong, curling contours that enclose the volumes. His design skill uses the relationships between the volumes to introduce tense rhythm and dynamic movement. Light and color used in his own masterly way form and shape the volumes activating the senses. Avoiding unnecessary details he penetrates deep into the composition unveiling the rhythms of the volumes and the dominant imposition of form. Particular skill uses the psychographic rhythm to give the otherworldly landscape warmth. With a psychographic rhythm and special dexterity he adds warmth and coziness to this eerie landscape.